Will postpartum urinary incontinence heal itself?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on February 05, 2025
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Symptoms of urinary incontinence after childbirth are curable for most women. Postpartum urinary incontinence results from the relaxation and strain of the pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy and childbirth, thus it is necessary to exercise these muscles after giving birth. Additionally, pelvic physiotherapy can also be performed. Generally, normal function can be restored within six months, and for those in better health, recovery can occur as soon as one month postpartum. It is critical to adhere to treatment under medical guidance when experiencing urinary incontinence; otherwise, the impact on a woman's health can be significant, affecting normal social interactions and work.

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How much water should a patient with urinary incontinence drink each day?

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Can you have intercourse with postpartum urinary incontinence?

Postpartum urinary incontinence should preclude sexual intercourse, as intercourse can exacerbate the condition. It is necessary to wait until recovery is achieved before resuming sexual activities. It is advised that patients promptly seek hospital treatment for pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation, which can generally bring effective relief within six months. If recovery begins after more than six months, the results can be poor. It is also important to develop good living habits, ensuring adequate sleep, avoiding fatigue, and refraining from heavy physical labor. Proper bowel movements should be maintained to prevent constipation, which can increase abdominal pressure and worsen urinary incontinence.

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Can postpartum urinary incontinence be recovered?

Most cases of urinary incontinence postpartum in women are treatable. To manage postpartum urinary incontinence, it is essential to develop good urination habits. Patients with postpartum urinary incontinence should urinate every two to three hours. This practice can help train the bladder control muscles and enhance the new mother’s awareness of urination. Each time you urinate, try to empty the bladder completely to train the pelvic floor muscles. Regularly performing exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles can increase their contraction and control abilities, alleviating cases of urinary incontinence. Most conditions can improve; however, more severe cases may require further treatment.