Postpartum Pelvic Floor Leaking: Typical but NOT Normal

Many women are told that leaking urine after having a baby is simply part of motherhood.

While pelvic floor leaking postpartum is very common, it should not be considered normal or something women simply have to live with.

Pregnancy and birth place significant stress on the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, uterus, and bowel.

These muscles may become:

• weakened

• stretched

• poorly coordinated

As a result, activities like coughing, running, sneezing, or jumping may lead to urinary leakage.

Postpartum leaking is typical because many women experience it.

But it is not normal in the sense that it indicates the pelvic floor system is not functioning optimally.

The encouraging news is that pelvic floor dysfunction is highly treatable.

Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on restoring coordination, strength, and support to the pelvic floor—and all the other core and hip muscles that support the PF!

Treatment may include:

• pelvic floor muscle training

• breathing and core coordination

• movement retraining

• guidance for return to exercise

When the pelvic floor works together with the core and diaphragm, the body can manage pressure much more effectively.

Women should consider evaluation if they experience:

• leaking with exercise

• pelvic pressure or heaviness

• discomfort during movement

• difficulty returning to activities they enjoy

These symptoms are signals from the body — not something women need to simply accept.

At Bloom Physical Therapy & Wellness, we help mothers rebuild strength and confidence so they can move comfortably in their bodies again.

Because postpartum recovery should support long-term health, not just short-term survival! Reach out if you’d like to chat more!