Survey highlights postpartum incontinence struggles and lack of medical support

A new survey conducted by Aeroflow Urology has found that a significant number of mothers experience postpartum incontinence, yet many do not receive the medical support they need to manage their condition.

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Postpartum incontinence, which occurs when individuals have difficulty controlling urination for up to a year after giving birth, is often caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles.

Despite its prevalence, the survey suggests that many new mothers suffer without treatment or guidance from health care providers.

The survey, administered by a third party, polled 966 mothers across the United States who had given birth in the past four years. It revealed that 76% of mothers experienced bladder leakage during routine activities such as sneezing, laughing, or doing household chores.

Additionally, 71% of respondents reported feeling anxious, stressed, and self-conscious due to their condition.

More than half of the surveyed mothers (60%) continued to experience incontinence beyond six months postpartum. Many also expressed dissatisfaction with the level of information provided by their health care providers, with more than 80% stating that they could have been better educated about postpartum incontinence.

Furthermore, 48% of respondents indicated that guidance on exercises to prevent or control bladder leaks would have been helpful in their recovery.

The survey also found that postpartum incontinence affects mothers beyond their physical health. Among respondents, 67% said they had missed out on social activities with family and friends due to their condition, while 60% reported experiencing additional complications, such as urinary tract infections, vaginal infections, and skin irritations.

Additionally, 75% of respondents stated that greater access to incontinence resources would help alleviate their stress and anxiety.

A large majority of surveyed mothers (95%) believe that more attention should be given to postpartum bladder issues.

“Postpartum is arguably the most difficult time in a mother’s life as she is navigating a new baby and extreme changes to her body. Adding in the stress of urinary incontinence without any medical assistance can leave most mothers feeling isolated and defeated,” said Aleece Fosnight, MSPAS, PA-C, CSC-S, CSE, NCMP, IF, HAES, and Medical Advisor to Aeroflow Urology. “These survey results indicate there is still much to be done to help mothers navigate this period of life. These findings show that we must pay more attention to women’s pelvic floor health and as health care providers, we must provide more adequate resources that educate, inform, and prepare mothers to manage their urinary incontinence.”

The findings from Aeroflow Urology's survey highlight the need for greater medical attention and resources for postpartum incontinence, aiming to improve the health and well-being of new mothers.

Reference:

Aeroflow Urology. New Survey from Aeroflow Urology Reveals Lack of Postpartum Incontinence Care Causes Lasting Health Problems for Mothers. Global Newswire. February 5, 2025. Accessed February 11, 2025. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/02/05/3021243/0/en/New-Survey-from-Aeroflow-Urology-Reveals-Lack-of-Postpartum-Incontinence-Care-Causes-Lasting-Health-Problems-for-Mothers.html