As labor looms, looks like all of my modesty is going out the window…

Today’s topic isn’t ‘pee your pants’ funny. Well, it depends, maybe it is a wee bit funny (only if it’s not happening to you). Pregnancy incontinence, or stress incontinence. I’ve had it this time around folks, and I’m not laughing.  But gee whiz, it’s my biggest pet peeve this pregnancy.  From what I’ve learned in hushed conversations with other mothers is that - we who pee are not alone.

Seriously though. When I’ve discreetly mentioned the issue to other mothers I get the all knowing nod, the side-glance, and the whispered ” me too…”  

It’s this big secret that no one really tells you about but so many experience. There is a reason there is an entire row dedicated to bladder control pads and diapers at your local pharmacy. They aren’t just for grandma and grandpa.  Shelves are filled with products named with such grace and confidence like Poise, Assure, and of course…Depend.

My little issue had been limited to bouts of sneezing or coughing. (With seasonal allergies and a spell of bronchitis -it had been pretty frequent). I never had a need for full fledged diapers. But if I did - do they even come in maternity sizes?

I can see it now: Pampers Waddlers for preggo moms…hmmm - what character would be featured on those?

Sure, you hear the mantra “Do your Kegels, Do your Kegels…” I have a friend who said - “Take it seriously! Do them!” When I brought up the topic to her and she nodded knowingly and vigorously. Again with the side glances and hushed tone…”After my second, I had to go to physical therapy for the, ahem, issue. My doctor even mentioned the potential for surgery to alleviate it.”

If it’s an ongoing problem, especially after the baby is born, please discuss it with your health care provider. They’ve heard it all before and can suggest appropriate solutions for you.

I surfed around and found some other mothers willing to share their story. Olympic skater Bonnie Blair

And Elisabeth Hasselbeck - shared her incident.

Here’s webMD’s list of 6 most embarrassing pregnancy symptoms that no one tells you about. Going #1 is #3 on the list…

OK, so I’ve shared a few of my embarrassing pregnancy issues  - from facial hair to this. Does anyone else want to chime in?

It’s okay, urine good company.

This entry was posted on Friday, November 2nd, 2007 at 9:15 am and is filed under Health, Main, Pregnancy. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.