Dodgy bladder and pregnant with number 2 - help!

[Daffodilly]

This isn't something I really want to admit to in RL. So thought I'd get it off my chest here.

DD1 - now 18 mths - was a big 9lb 1 baby and since the birth I've had problems with urge incontinence. I've been trying bladder retraining - but it is hard going.

I've JUST found out I am pg with #2 (5 weeks) and while I am thrilled (it tooks us years the first time), I am also anxious about the impact on my bladder. Dr says there isn't much that can be done whilst pg. I'm doing my pelvic floor exercises like mad. Dr also suggested that I consider a c-section to avoid further damage, but I'm not keen.

Anyone with similar experience, helpful advise or miracle cures to share???

Hi,

Im afraid i cant help too much because this is my first baby but i have a bladder condition that the midwife thinks may affect my birth too. I have a hyper-sensitive one that means anything can trigger infections and severe inflamation. I've had pains during this pregnancy and am only 17 weeks, i dread to think what it'll be like when the baby is a bit bigger! I've got to see a consultant about it, do you think you'll need to do the same?

Keep going with the pelvic floor and maybe its worth pushing for a referal to a consultant after your pregnancy? they can do miracle things these days!!!!Good luck.

I was advised not to do too many "quick repeat" pelvic floor exercises as this can strain things more - try holding for longer, slower reps. Apparently this exercises different muscle fibres. Good luck!

I sympathise due to other medical problems I've had mild urinary incontinence for years and new 12 weeks Pregnant. I can't suggest much for pregnancy apart from tena lady but afterwards there's a few options. Speak to your Dr abouth collegen injections, I had them a few times to try and booster the muscles around the bladder and they worked short term. I also had physio which involves a probe and mild electric currents to strengthen the pelvic floor- didn't work well for me. Also if you're planning to make this your last baby there's always surgery to "tighten" the muscles.
good luck- see you in the Q for the ladies!

Thanks for the replies. I am definitely going to talk to the consultant about it at the first chance. Good to know that I am not the only one with this kind of problem I guess. We women do suffer!

Greenlawn - interesting about doing more holding than quick squeezes I hadn't heard that but it does make sense. Unfortunately it is the squeeze and hold I really struggle with! Will keep going though....