The most common type of incontinence during pregnancy is urinary incontinence. However, it is possible to experience some faecal incontinence as well. This is because the same pelvic floor muscles that help support and control your bladder also support and control your bowels.

Pregnancy incontinence is caused by having weak pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor muscles are mainly responsible for supporting your bladder, bowels, and uterus. As your uterus grows throughout your pregnancy, these muscles have to work extra hard to compensate for the additional weight. The increased strain followed by extreme stretching during delivery often weakens or damages these muscles to the point of not being able to properly do their job. This leads to small leaks, uncontrollable flatulence, or even a complete loss of bladder and bowel control.

You can start experiencing incontinence at any point during your pregnancy. It all depends on how strong your pelvic floor muscles are pre-pregnancy and how much of a strain your pregnancy and delivery puts on them. In general, most women start experiencing incontinence towards the end of their pregnancy. However, it's not uncommon to have early pregnancy incontinence or only start struggling with incontinence after pregnancy either.

It’s definitely a possibility. If your pregnancy puts too high of a demand on your pelvic floor muscles, they could become so weak that they cannot control your bladder at all. Most women find their incontinence goes away or at the very least improves as the muscles heal during postpartum recovery.

Absolutely! Incontinence during pregnancy is very common, especially as you cough, laugh, or perform certain physical activities that put more pressure on your bladder.

While annoying and sometimes a little embarrassing, incontinence during pregnancy is not completely unmanageable. Symptoms of incontinence can often be improved by regularly performing kegel exercises, eating a healthy diet, and taking frequent trips to the restroom. Many women also find extra comfort in wearing leak proof underwear which helps absorb smaller leaks before they make a mess.

Belly Bandit’s leak proof undies help you manage bladder incontinence by stopping small leaks in their tracks. They can absorb much more liquid than regular panties, preventing embarrassing accidents and giving you peace of mind so you can go through your day with confidence knowing that if you do leak a little, it’s no big deal.

In most cases, yes. Most women find that their pregnancy incontinence improves or goes away entirely as their body recovers during the next 3-6 months of postpartum recovery. If you find your incontinence is not improving, don’t be afraid to bring it up with your doctor. They can suggest potential treatment options or even a pelvic floor therapist to help you regain control of your bodily processes.