Leaking urine after childbirth is extremely common — but that doesn’t mean it’s something you have to live with. Many women notice leaks when coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising, or even lifting their baby. While this can be part of early recovery, ongoing leaking is a sign your body needs support, not just time.
🤍 Why Does Leaking Happen After Birth?
During pregnancy and delivery, the pelvic floor muscles stretch and work harder than ever. Factors that can contribute to leaking include:
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Vaginal delivery or assisted birth
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Perineal tearing
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Prolonged pushing during labour
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Pregnancy-related pressure on the pelvic floor
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Reduced coordination between breathing and core muscles
Leaking doesn’t always mean the pelvic floor is “weak” — sometimes it’s overworked, tight, or not coordinating properly.
⏳ How Long Is Leaking Normal For?
Mild leaking in the first few weeks after birth can be part of normal healing.
However, if leaking continues beyond 6–8 weeks, or worsens with activity, exercise, or returning to sport, it’s worth being assessed by a women’s health physiotherapist.
The earlier it’s addressed, the easier it is to resolve.
✅ Things You Can Try to Reduce Leaking
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Focus on breathing, not just Kegels
Pelvic floor muscles work with your breathing. Learning how to relax and engage them at the right time is more important than doing lots of squeezes. -
Avoid “just in case” toilet trips
Going to the toilet too frequently can train the bladder to hold less. Try to space out bathroom visits gradually. -
Reduce high-impact exercise early on
Running, jumping, and heavy lifting increase pelvic floor load. These should be reintroduced gradually with guidance. -
Get individualised pelvic floor support
A women’s health physio can assess strength, coordination, and tension — then tailor exercises specifically for your body and recovery stage.
🌿 How Physiotherapy Can Help
Women’s health physiotherapy is safe, evidence-based, and highly effective for postnatal leaking. Treatment may include:
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Pelvic floor assessment and retraining
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Breathing and core coordination
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Education around bladder habits
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Gradual return-to-exercise planning
Most women see significant improvement with the right support — often without surgery or medication.
💙 You Don’t Have to Live With Leaking
Leaking after birth is common — but it’s not something you should ignore or accept long-term.
At Focus for Life Physiotherapy, our women’s health team supports you through recovery with a personalised, respectful approach focused on restoring confidence and function.