Hello, Moms!
I know it’s not easy having to pee all the time from the start of your pregnancy. Has anyone ever told you why? I always like to say that understanding something helps you better accept it!
In this article:
- Better understanding the phenomenon
- Status report
- Recommendations from my expert, Marie-Ève
Better Understanding the Phenomenon
Blood volume, which gradually increases during the first trimester, has an impact on kidney filtration and urinary frequency. The more blood that passes through the kidneys leads to more filtration, increased residue, and an increase in elimination to maintain a fluid balance in the organism. The release of progesterone also dilates the vessels in the body, which carries urine faster to the bladder. In addition to the relaxation of the vessels, there is the relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles, which can function at a lower level and predispose women to urgent urination.
Why do you have to go to the bathroom more at night? Excellent question! Laying down allows you to reabsorb the liquids accumulated in your lower limbs during the day and increases the circulating fluid and the need to eliminate it. Your body is a well-built machine, right? It works hard to maintain its functions in spite of the turmoil caused by pregnancy.
In addition to increased blood volume, a baby is growing in your uterus, which is taking up an increased amount of space and placing pressure on the surrounding organs and structures. These include the bladder, which is found in front of the uterus. In the same sense, if you are constipated (an accumulation of stool in the intestine), there is even less space. The different pelvic floor muscles are also overworked, stretched, and can offer less support (weakening) and continence (retention capacity), given the hormones relax these muscles. All of this put together means that a pregnant or new mother will have an urgent need to urinate and accidental urine loss, which we call urinary incontinence. This often occurs when making an effort – when a woman laughs, coughs, sneezes, or exerts herself physically.
To continue reading, go to Status Report.
