HEDI - Urge to Urinate

Many people suffer from frequent urination during pregnancy. This complaint occurs mainly in the first trimester and in the third trimester. Pregnant people often also have to go to the toilet more frequently at night. Sleep problems are therefore an unpleasant side effect of this condition. However, an increased urge to urinate can also be a sign of infection or inflammation, which you should definitely have treated.

Pregnancy and bladder pressure

Many people have to go to the toilet more often starting around the 6th week of pregnancy. Effects of the pregnancy hormone progesterone is one reason for this. This hormone relaxes the bladder muscles and sphincter so the bladder can no longer hold as much urine as before. But there are other reasons for the frequent urge to urinate during pregnancy. Because your body’s blood supply has now increased, your kidneys also work at full speed and produce more urine. In addition, the growing uterus will press on your bladder. The discomfort from this often subsides in the second trimester. This has to do with the fact that the uterus now expands upwards and the pressure on the sensitive organ subsides. However, the uterus sinks back down again in the last stage of pregnancy. The fetus's head presses directly on the bladder. You'll have to go to the bathroom more often now.

How to help yourself

By no means should you drink less now. Staying hydrated is very important for your health and for the fetus. Among other things, fluid stabilizes your circulation, which is somewhat stressed at this point. In addition, pregnant people are more susceptible to urinary tract infections. Frequent urination helps prevent unpleasant infections by flushing germs from the bladder. You can help yourself, however, by being aware of when you drink. If possible, you should avoid drinking directly before going to bed. It is also advisable to drink less before long walks or meetings. Try to avoid caffeinated drinks, as caffeine further stimulates the kidneys. When you are on the toilet, make a conscious effort to empty your bladder as completely as possible. Lean forward a bit, so your upper body presses on your bladder. Cold can also promote urinary tract infections and increase urination. Cozy underwear or a kidney belt will help keep your lower body nice and warm.

When I laugh, I leak urine

Many people experience unintentionally losing a few drops of urine every now and then during pregnancy. This can happen when you sneeze, laugh or make sudden movements. This condition is called pregnancy incontinence. If you’re affected, it's nothing to be ashamed of. Make sure you always wear a protective liner when you’re out and pack one or more spare pads. You can also get advice from your doctor or midwife. You can ask them to write you a prescription for physiotherapy so you can exercise your pelvic floor.

Beware of infections!

Pregnant people are prone to urinary tract infections. Therefore you should keep in mind that a bladder infection or a kidney infection can cause the constant urge to urinate. Often times, urinating with a bladder infection causes burning and pain, and sometimes there is blood in the urine. If you have a kidney infection, you may have a fever, feel listless, and have pain in the kidney area. If you suspect that you have an infection, you should contact your doctor or midwife immediately. Kidney infections can also be dangerous because they can lead to premature labour or premature birth. That's why your urine is tested regularly during check-ups.

Urge to Urinate

Pregnancy and bladder pressure

How to help yourself

When I laugh, I leak urine

Beware of infections!

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