Struggling to fully empty bladder & constipated

[Kl129]

I’m 19 weeks at the moment and I’m really struggling to fully empty my bladder over the last day.

I had a UTI and was on antibiotics, the doctor took another sample and told me this had cleared a few days ago.

Today I’ve just felt like I can’t fully have a wee! I drank 500ml of water about half an hour ago to try make me go properly, when I try I can only go a tiny bit at a time. Then I’ll get up, walk around and try again in 5 mins and another tiny bit comes out.

I’m also really constipated and have been for about a week, I’ve felt like I really need to go today but I just can’t I don’t know if they are related but it’s driving me mad.

With how busy the doctors are at the moment I don’t know whether it’s worth trying to book an appointment or if there is anything I can do at home.

Has anyone else had this and did anything help?

Hi sorry to hear this 😔 I had this in both my pregnancies but earlier, around 14 weeks. The doctors think it was due to my retroverted uterus coming out of the pelvis at that time and fighting for space with the bladder. It is such a horrible thing to experience so you have my sympathies ❤️ I ended up having to go to A&E on 2 occasions as I literally could not empty my bladder at all, it was awful. They said then it was important not to get constipated as that can exacerbate things.... I think you should definitely seek medical advice as urine retention shouldn’t be left and they can also help with the constipation x

I don’t think I can help with the peeing but for constipation, have you got a poo stool? It’s a small wooden/plastic footrest that raises your knees above your hip level and really helps with easing bowel movements! I got mine from amazon for under £20.

Eating prunes also really does work and try to up your fibre and keep drinking plenty of water. You could also try ground psyllium husks (also available on Amazon), mix 2 tsp with 200ml water and drink.

I can't help with the weeing but I've started taking some lactulose (stool softener) to help with constipation and it's great! Had tried increased fibre and water and I was eating prunes by the packet but getting no relief. Just be sure to stick with lots of water if you also choose an over-the-counter option to keep everything moving.