Ever cross your legs when you feel a sneeze coming? You're not alone! In fact, about a third of new mamas (close to seven million each year) experience leakage or have difficulty controlling their bladder at times.

Postpartum urinary incontinence is the involuntary leaking of urine when performing basic, or strenuous, day to day activities such as laughing, sneezing, coughing, or exercise.

Here's what you should know about postpartum bladder control:

• Pregnancy and delivery weaken the bladder and pelvis muscles
• As your uterus recovers from birth, it sits directly on top of the bladder inflicting direct pressure
• Also affected by hormonal changes
• Recovery can take anywhere from three months to over a year to regain full control

Here are a few of the best ways to deal with the loss of bladder control:

1.  Use postpartum pads. A little extra protection can never hurt, especially from leaking urine!
2.  Move when you can. Light exercise and weight loss can remove extra stress on your bladder muscles.
3.  Steer away from caffeine, alcohol, and smoking. These can all make your bladder muscles contract and spasm more easily and frequently! Drink water throughout the day.
4.  Do your kegel exercises! Kegels involve repeatedly contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles by working to increase their strength and elasticity.

If you're experiencing trouble with postpartum bladder control, you may qualify to receive postpartum pads through insurance! After filling out our Qualify Through Insurance Form, we will let you know all the items you are eligible to receive through your insurance.