Control your menstrual cycle and bladder
The menstrual cycle is the term used to describe the monthly series of changes a woman's body goes through to prepare for pregnancy, which typically begins during puberty and lasts until menopause. According to research published in StatPearls, the average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days.
Frequent urination and loss of bladder control are common during menstruation. In a study published in BJOG - International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, about 36% of participants reported experiencing mild loss of bladder control during their period. This may be due to:
1. Prostaglandin
These hormone-like compounds help the uterus contract to expel its lining. They affect organs like the bladder, making you feel the need to urinate more often.
2. Stay hydrated
Hormonal changes, especially an increase in progesterone, can cause water retention before your period. When your period begins, your body may release this retained fluid, leading to more frequent urination.
3. More thirsty
During menstruation, some women feel more thirsty due to hormonal changes. This leads to drinking more fluids, which causes them to urinate more.
Reasons why menstruation can affect the bladder:
Bladder sensitivity
The bladder can become more sensitive during menstruation, feeling full or slightly irritated. This is related to the close proximity of the bladder and uterus, where contractions and pressure in the pelvic area can affect both organs.
Bladder stimulation
Hormonal changes during menstruation can affect vaginal pH. This can lead to an increased risk of irritation or infections such as urinary tract infections, which can in turn irritate the bladder.
When hormonal changes occur, they can temporarily weaken the immune system during menstruation, increasing the risk of bladder or urinary tract infections, which can cause bladder irritation and frequent urination.
Irritable bladder due to endometriosis
In cases of endometriosis, when uterus-like tissue grows outside the uterus, it can affect the bladder. This can cause bladder pain or discomfort, especially during menstruation.
