Peeing for the first time after giving birth can be challenging. Here's how to make it easier, drawing from expert advice:
Tips for Urinating After Delivery
Many new mothers experience difficulty urinating after childbirth. Here are some tips and tricks to encourage urination and relieve discomfort:
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Relax and Don't Strain: Try to relax your pelvic floor muscles. Straining can make it harder.
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Warm Water Techniques:
- Urinate in a warm shower: The warm water can help relax the muscles.
- Run water in the background: The sound of running water can stimulate the urge to urinate.
- Pour warm water over your perineum: Use a peri bottle to gently pour warm water while you try to pee.
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Manual Assistance:
- Press gently above your pubic bone over your bladder: This can help stimulate urination.
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Temperature Contrast:
- Place your hand in cold water as you empty your bladder: The sensation of cold can help stimulate urination.
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Pain Management:
- If pain is stopping you, ask your midwife or doctor for pain medication.
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Pelvic Floor Exercises:
- Exercise your pelvic floor muscles. Although this may seem counterintuitive at first, gentle exercises can help restore function. Focus on relaxing and releasing these muscles.
If you're still unable to urinate, contact your healthcare provider. They may need to insert a catheter to empty your bladder.
