Can’t make it two blocks on your walk before you have to pee again? Join the pregnancy club. Frequent urination is a normal part of pregnancy and, sorry to say, is expected to continue throughout pregnancy as your babe puts more and more pressure on your bladder. Frequent urination is actually one of the first pregnancy symptoms, which may be exciting until frequent bathroom trips keep you up at night. Let's discuss what causes frequent urination during pregnancy and what you can do to manage the symptoms.
What exactly is "frequent urination"?
Frequent urination is described as the increased urge to urinate more often than your body usually does. A few factors cause the increase in bathroom trips during pregnancy. At the beginning of pregnancy, frequent urination is caused by increased hormone production of progesterone and the pregnancy hormone HCG. As the uterus grows throughout pregnancy, the uterus begins to apply pressure on the bladder, causing more frequent bathroom trips.
When does frequent urination start in pregnancy?
The need to urinate more frequently may begin even before your missed period or within the first few weeks after conception. In fact, frequent urination is an early symptom of pregnancy.
Stages of urination and changes during pregnancy
First Trimester
During the first few weeks of pregnancy, the hormones progesterone and HCG cause you to urinate more often. In addition, your kidneys begin to work harder to remove waste from your body. Frequent urination is an early pregnancy symptom that may encourage you to take a pregnancy test before your missed period.
Second trimester
As your belly continues to grow, your uterus will begin to put pressure on your bladder. However, as your uterus grows above your belly button and rises into your abdomen, it may relieve some pressure off your bladder. As a result, you may notice a short break between the frequent bathroom breaks.
Third Trimester
During your third trimester, you may notice those bathroom emergencies return in full swing. This is because the baby grows and becomes cramped in the uterus. The pressure and weight of the baby may cause frequent bathroom breaks.
Postpartum
After giving birth, it may take about six weeks to see a complete improvement. This is because your pelvic nerves, tissues, and muscles are still weak after birth. Therefore, it may take some time before your muscles and pelvic floor gain strength.
How many times a day is frequent urination in early pregnancy?
Before pregnancy, the average woman uses the restroom between six to seven times a day. But, of course, this can vary based on your liquid intake, such as water, alcohol, or coffee. While every woman is different and creates their own normal, it is not uncommon for women to urinate more than ten times a day during pregnancy.
Tips for managing frequent urination symptoms while pregnant
Drink liquids, but not too late
Consider reducing your liquid intake to avoid having to pee too often. However, it is essential to keep yourself hydrated throughout your entire pregnancy. Therefore, do not cut back on liquids during pregnancy unless it negatively interferes with your life, such as keeping you up at night.
If you wake up frequently and are not getting a good night's sleep because of frequent bathroom use, it may be acceptable to limit your liquid intake before bedtime. You may reduce your liquid intake up to two hours before bed. It is important to drink enough fluids during the day and maintain hydration.
Avoid caffeine
While studies have concluded over the years that caffeine does not cause dehydration, it is a diuretic. Caffeine causes your body to pass urine more frequently. However, if you are not careful, the effects of the diuretic may cause dehydration if it is not paired with drinking water.
Watch out for UTIs
UTI symptoms may easily be mistaken for pregnancy symptoms. Unfortunately, pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing UTIs. However, there are tall tale signs to watch out for that indicate it may be time to see the doctor. UTI symptoms include:
- Cloudy urine
- Pain or burning while peeing
- Unusual odor to your urine
- Decreased bladder control
- Lower abdominal pain
- Nausea
Lean forward while peeing
Did you know some positions help your bladder fully empty? When you sit on the toilet, place your elbows on your knees to lean forward comfortably. Be sure to keep your feet flat on the floor. A good example is your body should be in a similar position as if you are reading a book while on the toilet. This position helps relax your bladder to empty both your bladder and bowels completely.
Leakproof Underwear
Sometimes bladder leaks occur when you least expect it, and you may need extra protection. Our leakproof underwear look and feel like your basic underwear, but made better. Designed to protect against all kinds of leaks, you can live your day-to-day life during pregnancy, worry-free of leaks. Our Leak-Loc® technology pulls moisture away from the body and locks leaks in. All of our leakproof underwear are washable and reusable. To store in between washes, use our mesh laundry bag and give them a quick rinse with cold water after use.
Frequent urination may not be avoidable during pregnancy. Unfortunately, it is just one of those many pesky pregnancy symptoms. However, with the proper tools, you may spend less time in the bathroom and more time doing the things you love.
Sources:
Healthline. Prenatal Care: Urinary Frequency and Thirst,
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/urinary-frequency-thirst
Pregnancybirth&baby. Frequent urination during pregnancy,
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/frequent-urination-during-pregnancy
Babycenter. Frequent urination during pregnancy,
https://www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/your-body/frequent-urination-during-pregnancy_237
