Leaking?

[Lissles]

Hi

I am 18 weeks pregnant and have been experiencing a slight leakage downstairs for the past few days and just wondered if anyone had experienced similar as there doesnt seem to be much reassuring info on the net!

Thanks x

[rmh2012]

Hi,

Earlier this pregnancy, I had regular urine leakage. It was more than usual for that (or indeed, any) stage of pregnancy, and my midwife and doctor (at the maternity ward, not my GP) suggested that it was likely due to the pressure of where the baby was sitting at that time. I also couldn't feel the benefits of pelvic floor exercises immediately surrounding the urethra. The doctor suggested that nerves may have been impacted due to the position of the baby. He also suggested that it may be more common, but not reported. There was little that could be done while pregnant (apart from maintain exercises) but if the problems continued post-pregnancy they'd be happy to see me back at the hospital. In my case, it cleared up in a few weeks, and everything has been back to normal for some time.

It may also be leaking amniotic fluid. However there are loads of women who experience leaking amniotic fluid and go on to have successful pregnancies and healthy babies. I don't want to trivialise this - it can be a serious problem - I just don't want you to panic based on what you've read.

I'd suggest calling your midwife, or seeing your GP if you don't have a named midwife yet. You can also try calling your nearest early pregnancy unit. They'll be able to help you work out whether you need to be assessed.

Try not to worry too much until you actually know what's going on in your case.

R x

[Lissles in reply to rmh2012]

Thank you for your reassyring reply xx

[Hidden]

Hi Lissles,

As R said, urine leakage can happen during pregnancy if your baby is resting in a position that puts pressure on your bladder. But I agree - a quick call to the midwife or a visit to the GP is not a bad idea.

We have some information on secretions during pregnancy on our website here nct.org.uk/pregnancy/vagina...

Also, the NCT helpline is open from 9am-6pm if you want to get some practical and emotional support from an antenatal teacher.

Hope this helps, all the best,

Alice x

[Lissles in reply to Hidden]

Thank you to you both that is reassuring. I have spoke with my hospital birthing centre and they said as long as it was only a little bit it should be ok and is more thanlikley urine. Its just that it didnt seem to mentioned much so of course you worry. 20 week scan coming soon so all to be checked then as well.

Thanks xx

[rmh2012 in reply to Lissles]

Hmmm ... suspect my doctor was right, under-reporting due to this coming under the 'embarrassing' classification. A little transparency goes a long way...

Glad you feel better - too much doom and gloom on some topics online!

R x