All About Postpartum Incontinence: Causes, Solutions & Expert Advice
Understanding & Managing Postpartum Incontinence
Birth is a beautiful, life-changing experience that can come with some unexpected challenges, including postpartum incontinence. In fact, postpartum incontinence is one of the most common complications women can experience in the weeks and months after childbirth.
Whether that means occasional, temporary leaks or ongoing bladder control issues, understanding postpartum incontinence can help you:
- Manage it better.
- Regain your confidence.
- Focus on what matters most, your new baby and your growing family!
To that end, this practical guide shares enlightening and empowering answers to several questions, including:
What Is Postpartum Incontinence?- How Common Is Postpartum Urinary Incontinence?
- How Long Does Postpartum Incontinence Last?
- Can You Use Incontinence Pads for Postpartum?
- Can You Use Incontinence Underwear for Postpartum?
- How Many Adult Diapers Do I Need Postpartum?
- Will Postpartum Incontinence Go Away?
- How to Deal with Postpartum Incontinence
This resource on postpartum incontinence highlights the essentials in less than ~5 minutes. When you need free incontinence supplies with Medicaid in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho, simply contact MyMedSupplies.
MyMedSupplies is a medical supply provider of choice throughout the Northwest U.S., with a long-standing reputation for excellence, expertise, customer-first service, and the highest-quality incontinence products.
What Is Postpartum Incontinence?
Postpartum incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine following childbirth. Both pregnancy and delivery can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles, interfering with bladder control.
Common causes of postpartum incontinence include:
- Vaginal delivery, which strains the pelvic floor and weakens the bladder muscles.
- Hormonal changes, as postpartum shifts in hormone levels can impact bladder function.
- Increased pressure on the bladder during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, and delivery
Many women experience postpartum incontinence, and it’s often temporary. With the right products and techniques, postpartum incontinence can be easy to manage.
How Common Is Postpartum Urinary Incontinence?
Postpartum urinary incontinence is extremely common, affecting roughly one in three women after childbirth.
Of course, postpartum incontinence can present itself in distinct ways for different women, with some experiencing symptoms like (and not limited to):
- Mild leakage when sneezing or laughing
- Moderate leakage with more physical exertion or exercise
- Frequent, unexpected bladder leaks
Women most likely to experience postpartum incontinence typically include those with:
- Multiple pregnancies: Each pregnancy can intensify the stress that the pelvic floor endures.
- Prolonged or difficult labor: Labor can increase the strain on bladder muscles.
- Large babies: Birthing large babies can result in more extensive (and still repairable) damage to the pelvic floor.
If you’re experiencing bladder leaks after giving birth, you’re not alone. Many moms go through this, and there are effective ways to manage it.
How Long Does Postpartum Incontinence Last?
With proper care, postpartum incontinence can improve in ~6 to 12 months for many women.
Others may experience lingering symptoms beyond a year, particularly if they had a more challenging delivery or they’ve delivered multiple babies.
Nevertheless, postpartum incontinence can improve with:
- Pelvic floor exercises: Known as “kegels,” these exercises can strengthen the muscles that control urination.
- Bladder training: This practice can help restore normal urination patterns.
- Use of incontinence products: Adult diapers for women, incontinence pads, and other supplies can help manage leaks as the body heals.
If you experience incontinence for more than a year — or if your condition worsens over time — consult a healthcare professional.
Can You Use Incontinence Pads for Postpartum?
Yes, incontinence pads can be used postpartum, and they often provide better absorbency and odor control than standard menstrual pads. Postpartum bleeding (lochia) can be heavy in the first few weeks, so having high-absorbency pads can help manage both bladder leaks and postpartum discharge.
When choosing incontinence pads for postpartum care, look for:
- High absorbency: Postpartum flow and bladder leaks often require more absorption.
- Soft, breathable materials: This feature can prevent irritation and discomfort as your body heals.
Can You Use Incontinence Underwear for Postpartum?
Absolutely! Incontinence underwear is a great postpartum option, offering more protection and coverage than pads alone. Unlike regular underwear, incontinence underwear is designed for high absorbency and leak protection.
Like postpartum pads, incontinence underwear can be comfortable, breathable, and resistant to shifting and bunching. Unlike pads, however, incontinence underwear can offer full coverage.
How Many Adult Diapers Do I Need Postpartum?
It depends on the severity of bleeding and urinary leakage. On average, new moms may need 4 to 6 diapers per day during the first two weeks following childbirth. After that, they’ll usually need less, with usage tapering off as the body recovers.
If you’re about to give birth or recently postpartum, here’s what you can do:
- Stock up on at least a two-week supply before or right after delivery.
- Choose high-absorbency overnight diapers for extra protection while sleeping.
- Consider both diapers and pads, so you have options as you heal.
Will Postpartum Incontinence Go Away?
The answer to this question is different for every woman because personal medical history is a factor here.
For most women, postpartum incontinence gradually improves over time as the pelvic floor recovers and regains its strength. However, recovery times vary based on the type of delivery, individual muscle strength, personal health, and more.
If you need a definitive answer here, consult your doctor and follow all recommended care plans.
How to Deal with Postpartum Incontinence
The right products and support can simplify what it takes to manage postpartum incontinence, no matter how long it lasts. Incontinence supplies for women that can offer essential support include (and are not limited to):
- Adult diapers for women, with various levels of absorbency and options for night protection.
- Disposable incontinence underwear, with comfortable, pull-on style options for all-day wear.
- Incontinence pads, which can address lighter bladder leaks and postpartum flow.
- Protective bed pads to keep bedding clean and dry while sleeping.
At MyMedSupplies, we specialize in providing high-quality incontinence supplies to postpartum women and others, providing an easier way to get these items through Medicaid in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.
How to Get Postpartum Incontinence Products with Medicaid in WA, OR & ID
When you need postpartum incontinence supplies with Medicaid, it’s time to contact MyMedSupplies.
Our experienced, knowledgeable team can help you:
- Determine your eligibility.
- Gather the necessary documentation.
- Navigate the process with minimal hiccups or delays.
- Get access to the high-quality postpartum incontinence products you need.
- Coordinate product resupplies and discrete home deliveries for the ultimate convenience.
With 40+ years of experience in the medical supply and Medicaid space, MyMedSupplies is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care, Inc. (ACHC) to provide Durable Medical Equipment, Respiratory Services, and Medical Supplies. We are also committed to going above and beyond for our customers, providing extraordinary service and reliable access to top-of-the-line incontinence supplies.
To find out more — or get help getting free incontinence products with Medicaid — simply talk to a professional coordinator at MyMedSupplies. We are here for you, ready to help.