Knocked Up Podcast - Urinary Incontinence After Childbirth Explained
Dr. Tzippora Ben-Harim, Head of Gynaecology at Women's Health Melbourne explains urinary incontinence after childbirth.
We are joined by Dr. Tzippora Ben-Harim, head of Gynaecology at Women's Health Melbourne, about urinary incontinence after childbirth. Urinary incontinence is common, affecting 1 in 3 to 1 in 4 women postpartum and occurs in two main forms: stress incontinence (leaking with coughing/sneezing) and urge incontinence (not making it to the toilet in time). The condition results from pressure on the pelvic floor during pregnancy, trauma from vaginal delivery, and postpartum oestrogen deficiency, particularly in breastfeeding women.
We discuss all types of treatment:
Conservative management including vaginal oestrogen therapy and pelvic floor physiotherapy satisfies most women's needs
Pessaries can provide temporary relief for those requiring additional support
Surgical options are typically reserved until family planning is complete due to risk of recurrence
Lifestyle modifications include reducing caffeine intake and maintaining proper hydration
Preventive measures include prenatal pelvic floor exercises and optimising general health before pregnancy
Hosted by Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi Morrison
Dr Raelia Lew is a RANZCOG Board Certified CREI Fertility specialist, Gynaecologist and the Director of Women’s Health Melbourne.
Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast
Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous.