Knocked Up: The Podcast About Getting Pregnant

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 a