As you can see from this image, your baby needs ALL the space – if your bladder stays full, it takes up room that your baby needs to move into a better position.
You need to be drinking little and often water throughout labour, especially with gas & air which can make your mouth dry. So you also need to be having regular wees – at least every hour focus on emptying your bladder.
Here’s what can happen if your bladder stays full…
- labour can slow and pushing can be prolonged, which could lead to unnecessary interventions, not to mention frustration and discomfort
- you may be more uncomfortable than you need to be
- you may need a catheter to empty your bladder as it can become harder to wee
- it can add more stress and pressure on your muscles, which can make for a longer recovery
It’s helpful to make this part of your to do list for labour and birth because it can be as essential as thinking about positions, your breathing, managing your energy and working with your contractions.
I can also send you a checklist for labour and birth, which is a handy tool for you and your birth partner – just send me a message or leave me a comment and I’ll send you a link.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Jx
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