Is This Normal? Bladder Functioning Clarified

When it comes to your bladder, have you ever wondered, is this normal? Most of us have asked ourselves that at some point in our lives, especially after having a baby, surgery, or any injury. As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I've been asked that question countless times. So here's a breakdown of urinary habits and functioning: what is normal, what is not, and what we can do about it.

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Normal Bladder Functioning:

Peeing every 2-4 hours (about 5-8 times per day)
Peeing 0-1 times during the night
Steady stream of urine without hesitancy or disruption
NO leakage or urinary incontinence with rushing to the bathroom, urgency, coughing, sneezing, jumping, exercising, or during sexual activity

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Things to Avoid:

Straining, pushing, or power peeing
Just in case voiding, or going sooner than 2 hours
Waiting longer than 4 hours to void
Performing kegels while voiding

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How to Take Care of Your Bladder:

Stay hydrated
Avoid bladder irritants
Relax and take your time on the toilet
Pee every 2-4 hours
See a pelvic floor physical therapist!

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Remember, symptoms like urinary urgency, frequency, pain, and leakage are common but not normal!

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Need any help? Contact me at Activcore Littleton to start feeling and moving better.

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‍Disclaimer: The views expressed in this post are based on the opinion of the author, unless otherwise noted, and should not be taken as personal medical advice. The information provided is intended to help readers make their own informed health and wellness decisions.

Dr. Rachel Gerton

Physical Therapist

Rachel Gerton is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) who specializes in pelvic health with a particular interest in helping pregnant and postpartum moms. She also enjoys treating kids and those experiencing pelvic pain. She works at Activcore in Denver, Colorado, located just one mile from the popular Cherry Creek Shopping District. She also works at Activcore in Littleton, Colorado, which is located inside the Womens Health Care Associates OBGYN clinic.

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