Question for runners

[Warby]

I am about halfway through a "Learn to Run a 5k" program and am thrilled at how my endurance is increasing. But I have this problem that I am sure is not unrelated to having birthed four babies: I pee when I run.

Before I start the workout I always empty my bladder and am fine for the walking warm up. But soon after I start running I have to pee again. By the end of the first run interval I am desperate for the toilet. As soon as the interval is over I run to the bathroom and pee again. Thank goodness I am on my basement treadmill and not on a trail somewhere.

I also notice that I leak pee (I also sweat a lot down there so it is hard to tell which is which) while I run.

I know I should do more kegels which will hopefully help. But in the meantime, does anyone have recommendations?

 

[dgirllamius]

Maybe it's your pelvic muscles or whatever they're called - perhaps the running is making your muscles weak....hmm, not sure how to describe it really but have you considered doing some pelvic floor exercises to see if it's strengthens them a little bit? I imagine that could be the possible cause.

 

[Eidson23]

Running can't possibly harm you muscles (in that sense). You pelvic muscles are probably weak from childbirth, which is completely normal. I don't have issues when I run, but I know when I'm jumping around or doing squats, that I've "leaked" a little. I honestly don't know how to fix the problem. Kegals can help, but I also know that if it's becoming a problem with fitness that a doctor is the best person to go to. I'd hate for someone to get turned off from fitness because of that

 

[Warby]

Thanks. I wasn't thinking that running was causing the leaking, just that it was noticeable then.

I guess what I meant when I asked the question was, does anybody use a panty liner or anything like that when they run?

 

[Eidson23]

I don't, but it might help you feel better when you're running! I know I worry if anything can be seen, a panty liners would definitely give me that peace of mind...

 

[Becci_Boo86]

im the same as u hun. i empty my bladder before i start my run and find i leak while im running. i have been using a panty liner. i think it just cos ur muscles are weak after baby so just do more kegels and i think it will fit it in no time xx

 

[Try Rocking]

I'm the same, I don't leak (yet, I'm sure it's coming) but I would have to pee constantly whenever I ran.