Bladder control and contractions

[mizznicole]

So during these warm up contractions I often feel like I'm going to lose control of my bladder. Do I try to hold it or buy some Depends? is it common to wet yourself in labor or is it just a sensation?

[JamieCatheryn]

It's a lot of pressure on the bladder having strong contractions. I only felt like I suddenly really really had to pee during actual labor contractions, and in response I waited through 1 or 2 more contractions and made my way to the toilet to go a little more, probably every half hour. On the bright side it's good for labor having an empty bladder, if it's full it can prevent progress. If you've done your Kegels it is more a "have to urinate" sensation than a loss of control, I think.

[Smokering]

I recall going to the toilet a fair few times during labour... but I can't remember if I was desperate, or just wanting some peace and quiet to be miserable all on my own. :p A lot of woman like to labour on the toilet anyway, which makes it a non-issue!

[MyFullHouse]

I don't remember it ever being an issue in my labors, but I don't think it was really on my mind.  I do try to make it a point to use the bathroom frequently, just to keep things moving.

I've worn regular sanitary napkins during the early stages of labor, especially with my SROM baby, so I probably wouldn't have even noticed a little urine.  And chux pads were always on anything I ever sat on, so I was never nervous about "ruining" anything.  I've seen what those puppies can handle, lol!