Does natural delivery increase the risk of incontinence?

Many studies have shown the risk of developing urinary incontinence from natural delivery and cesarean section delivery to be the same. High risks of female incontinence exist due to the strain on the pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy, irrespective of the method of delivery.

This is because the strain on the pelvic floor muscles comes mainly from pregnancy itself, during which the weight of the growing baby is fully absorbed by the pelvic floor. In terms of bladder control, the pelvic floor muscles wrap tightly around the opening of the bladder like a rubber band, and only relaxes when the bladder is full and a signal is sent to the brain to release the urine. Incontinence is caused by inability to hold in urine due to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.

Deliberate pelvic exercise can help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. When done correctly, pelvic exercise can help you improve bladder control, regain sexual sensations and relieve back ache.

Related articles:

How does the VPT treat Urinary Incontinence?
How does pregnancy affect the pelvic floor muscles?
Does c-section delivery reduce the risk of incontinence?