Current opinion: postpartum urinary disorders

The aim of this study was to describe the common postpartum urinary sequelae including urinary retention and incontinence, and to summarize the management of these conditions.

Despite the high frequency of urinary disorders in obstetrics, screening and management protocols are rarely utilized by providers. Large variation exists in the literature regarding assessment of postpartum urinary retention, values of postvoid residuals and management of indwelling catheters in the immediate postpartum population. Recent expert guidance outlines a strategy for managing this condition.Research also highlights that screening for peripartum urinary incontinence is not a routine practice. The diagnosis is made more challenging by the fact that patients commonly understate and over-normalize their symptoms. Emerging studies have found that pelvic floor muscle training is cost-effective, preventive, and may improve symptoms in the postpartum setting.

Increased awareness of urinary disorders in pregnancy and postpartum is imperative for appropriate diagnosis and management. Instituting standardized voiding protocols postpartum will allow providers to avoid undiagnosed postpartum urinary retention and its repercussions. Improved screening and education regarding urinary incontinence in the peripartum is important for early management, such as pelvic floor muscle training, and improved quality of life.