Why Urinary Incontinence After Pregnancy Is So Common — And How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Helps
- elaineruzphysiothe0
- Dec 4
- 2 min read
Urinary leakage is one of the most common — yet most ignored — postpartum concerns. Studies show that urinary incontinence after pregnancy affects 4 in 10 women, and women who deliver vaginally have up to 50% higher risk of leakage compared to those who deliver by C-section.
Despite how common it is, most women feel embarrassed, confused, or unsure about getting help. Many are told it’s “normal after birth,” even though it is treatable, preventable, and not something you have to live with.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers safe, effective, research-supported solutions to help women take back confidence and control.
What Causes Urinary Incontinence After Pregnancy?
Your pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, uterus, and bowels — and they stretch significantly during pregnancy and birth. When these muscles weaken, urinary incontinence after pregnancy becomes much more likely.
Common causes include:
Increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy
Hormonal changes affecting tissue elasticity
Vaginal delivery stretching pelvic floor muscles
Risk of nerve or muscle trauma during birth
Long pushing phases or assisted delivery
Diastasis recti (abdominal separation)
Postural and breathing changes that affect core control
Because of this strain, vaginal delivery increases the risk of urinary leakage by almost 50% compared to C-section.
Why Women Stay Silent About Leakage
Even though urinary incontinence after pregnancy is extremely common, women often avoid seeking help due to:
Embarrassment or fear of judgment
Thinking “everyone leaks after birth”
Lack of awareness that treatment exists
Busy schedules caring for newborns
Fear of internal exams
Misconceptions that it will “just get better on its own”
This silence leaves many women struggling when they could be healing.
How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Helps
The good news: urinary incontinence after pregnancy is highly treatable. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is considered one of the most effective first-line treatments.
Pelvic floor physio can help you:
✔ Strengthen weakened pelvic muscles
✔ Restore bladder control
✔ Improve urgency and frequency
✔ Reduce leakage when coughing or sneezing
✔ Correct core and breathing mechanics
✔ Treat prolapse-related pressure
✔ Return safely to exercise
At Uniphysio & Associates, pelvic floor physiotherapist Sienna Yoon, PT provides one-on-one, evidence-based care in a supportive and private environment.
When to Seek Help
You should book a pelvic floor assessment if you experience:
Leaking when coughing, laughing, sneezing
Sudden urgency or difficulty holding urine
Frequent urination or nighttime trips
Leakage during workouts
Pressure, heaviness, or bulging sensations
Postpartum pelvic weakness or pain
Even small leaks are a sign your pelvic floor needs support.
You Don’t Have to Live With Leakage — Take Care of Your Pelvic Health
Urinary incontinence after pregnancy is common, but not “normal.” You deserve to feel strong, confident, and supported.
The earlier you begin pelvic floor physiotherapy, the faster and more complete your recovery will be.
Or Call Us today!
(905) 997-1677
