Urinary incontinence during pregnancy – what happens, and how can you manage it?

Have you experienced a small involuntary drip when coughing, sneezing, or laughing during pregnancy? Maybe it leaks when you jump up from the sofa, lift shopping bags, or do light exercise. It can feel embarrassing, frustrating, or limiting, and many choose to ignore it. “It’s probably just part of being pregnant,” one might think.

But even small leaks can affect both your mood and social life. You may become reluctant to attend social events, exercise, or work, and feel a little shame over something that is actually quite normal during pregnancy.

Even if it only happens once or twice, it can be a good idea to know what options exist, how to prevent worsening, and when it is relevant to seek help. This article guides you through facts, solutions, and practical advice for pregnant women experiencing urinary incontinence.

How common is urinary incontinence during pregnancy?

Urinary incontinence during pregnancy is very common. Several studies show that 30–50% of pregnant women experience urinary leakage, and the occurrence often increases with the length of pregnancy [1]. It can be stress incontinence (leakage when coughing, sneezing, or jumping) or urgency symptoms (a sudden strong urge to urinate) [2].

Why some women hesitate to seek help

It is completely understandable that many women hesitate to talk about urinary incontinence. Reasons can include:

• Fear and shame: The feeling that “it’s embarrassing” or “I should be able to handle it myself”
• Taboos: The topic is rarely discussed, even with family or friends
• Lack of knowledge: Many women do not know that effective solutions and treatments exist
• Lack of time and energy: Pregnancy can be busy, and small leaks are not prioritized
• Incorrect normalization: Many think, “it will probably go away after birth”

Although it may feel natural to wait, it is important to know that even small episodes can be managed, and you have the right to advice and support from healthcare professionals.

Which methods help with urinary incontinence during pregnancy?

There are several ways to reduce or prevent urinary leakage during pregnancy:

• Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT): Proven effective. Regularly train the pelvic floor muscles – hold the contraction as if stopping the urine flow, 5–10 seconds, several times daily. [5]
• Lifestyle habits: Bladder training, optimal fluid intake, avoiding large amounts of caffeine, moderate exercise
• Supportive products: High-waist briefs can provide abdominal and pelvic support, and discreet briefs can be used postpartum

These methods are gentle, non-invasive, and can be combined with professional guidance.

Signs that you should seek help

Some leaks are normal during pregnancy, but there are signs that suggest you should talk to a midwife or doctor:

• More frequent or worsening leaks over time
• Pain during urination
• Blood in the urine or frequent infections
• Sudden strong urge that cannot be controlled
• Symptoms affecting sleep, mood, or daily activities
• Feeling that the pelvic floor cannot be held tense correctly

Practical exercises – how to train the right muscles

To reduce urinary incontinence, it is important to train the right muscles:

• Pelvic floor muscles: Lift and pull the muscles up toward the pubic bone, as if stopping the urine stream. Avoid tensing the buttocks or breathing incorrectly. If you tense incorrectly, you will feel pressure downward or tension in the buttocks/abdomen instead of in the pelvic floor.
• Inner abdominal muscles (transversus abdominis): Pull the navel in toward the spine without holding your breath. This supports the pelvic floor.
• Urogynecological physiotherapist: Can guide you in correct technique, ensure you activate the right muscles, and adapt exercises during pregnancy. 

Treatment options Danish doctors can refer to

Danish doctors take urinary incontinence during pregnancy seriously. When you seek help, you will meet healthcare professionals with extensive experience and understanding who look at your situation individually.

• Supervised PFMT with a urogynecological physiotherapist or midwife [5]
• Bladder training / behavioral changes
• Pessary (temporary mechanical support for the pelvis)
• Specialized urogynecological assessment if needed
• Pharmacological treatment – usually only after childbirth

Treatment choice is based on symptoms, age, stage of pregnancy, and individual needs.

Summary – small steps to more control and confidence

Urinary incontinence during pregnancy is common, but you can take concrete steps to manage it and feel more secure:

1. Talk to a midwife or doctor – you deserve advice and support
2. Start proper pelvic floor training, preferably supervised by a urogynecological physiotherapist
3. Use products like high-waist panties during pregnancy and discreet briefs postpartum for support and comfort
4. Be aware of signs that require assessment – both normal and more serious symptoms
5. Remember, small leaks are nothing to be ashamed of – action and knowledge provide reassurance

Sources

1. Sangsawang B, Palmer M. Stress urinary incontinence in pregnant women: a review. Int Urogynecol J.
2. Viktrup L. Management of urinary incontinence in Danish general practice.
3. Hermansen IL et al., Information about pelvic floor exercises and UI.
4. Kjeldsen AC et al., Reproductive history and urinary incontinence in Danish women.
5. Danish Health Authority – National clinical guideline: Urinary incontinence in women
6. Journal of Medicine – articles on incontinence and work function