Doctor Verified

C-Section Vs Natural Birth: Which Poses A Higher Risk Of Urinary Incontinence Later In Life?

C-section and natural birth are two of the most common delivery methods. However, one of them poses a greater risk of urinary incontinence, a condition characterised by loss of bladder control. Here’s what a doctor shared with us.
  • SHARE
  • FOLLOW
C-Section Vs Natural Birth: Which Poses A Higher Risk Of Urinary Incontinence Later In Life?


Bringing a new life into the world is one of the most demanding experiences for the female body. Beyond the emotional and mental toll, childbirth places immense physiological stress on a woman—effects that can last well beyond delivery. One such long-term concern is urinary incontinence, which many women face later in life. While debates often revolve around the pros and cons of natural versus caesarean deliveries, the question remains: which carries a higher risk of urinary incontinence? We turned to an expert to find out.

Also Read: Don’t Ignore Urinary Incontinence, Talk To Your Doctor: Know Why It Matters

What Is Urinary Incontinence?

1

Urinary incontinence is a condition characterised by the loss of bladder control, which means you can't prevent urine from leaking out when you don't mean to. It's a common condition, not a disease, and it can range from occasional leaks to more frequent, severe issues that affect daily life.

The cause determines the type of incontinence, such as stress incontinence from physical pressure like coughing or laughing, urge incontinence from a sudden, strong need to urinate, or overflow incontinence from a bladder that can't empty properly.

According to StatPearls Publishing, an estimated 42.3 crore people worldwide aged 20 or older experience some form of urinary incontinence. Among women aged 20-39, 7-37% experience some degree of incontinence, research shares, adding that in women older than 60, approximately 9-39% reported urinary incontinence on a daily basis.

C-Section Vs Natural Birth: Which Childbirth Method Poses A Higher Risk Of Urinary Incontinence?

1

Explaining the effects of childbirth on pelvic floor and bladder health,Dr Arjumand Afaq, Senior Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, CARE Hospitals, Nampally, Hyderabad, said, "During a normal delivery, the pelvic floor muscles and tissues stretch a lot to allow the baby to pass. This stretching can sometimes weaken the muscles that support the bladder and uterus, leading to urine leakage or a feeling of heaviness later. In a C-section, the pelvic floor is less affected, but pregnancy itself puts pressure on these muscles, so the risk is not completely avoided."

Therefore, according to the doctor, leakage of urine is usually more common after a vaginal delivery. This is because the pelvic muscles and nerves can get stretched or injured during birth. Women who have C-sections can also face this issue, but the chances are generally lower compared to vaginal delivery.

A 2003 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine concluded that while the risk of urinary incontinence is higher among women who have had caesarean sections than among women who have never given birth, it is even higher among women who have had vaginal deliveries.

Also Read: Menstruation And Bladder Control: What Every Woman Should Know

Does The Number Of Child Deliveries Double The Risk?

3

“Definitely,” Dr Afaq said. “The more times a woman is pregnant, the more pressure her pelvic floor has to bear. Whether it is a vaginal birth or a C-section, repeated pregnancies can slowly weaken the muscles and increase the risk of urinary incontinence.”

The doctor adds that assisted deliveries like vacuum-assisted or forceps deliveries can increase the risk of urinary incontinence in women. Studies show that compared to spontaneous vaginal deliveries, these interventions might lead to more pelvic floor trauma, affecting bladder control.

Other Risk Factors Of Urinary Incontinence In Women

Ageing can affect urinary incontinence in women. As women age, they might experience changes that can contribute to worsening urinary incontinence. Some factors include:

  • Decreased oestrogen levels after menopause, which can lead to vaginal atrophy and weaken pelvic muscles
  • Weakening of pelvic floor muscles over time
  • Increased risk of medical conditions like diabetes or neurological disorders that can affect bladder control
  • Weight gain, which can put more pressure on the bladder

Preventive Steps To Take

The good news is that women can take simple steps to protect their bladder health. These include:

  • Doing pelvic floor exercises, also called Kegels, regularly after delivery helps strengthen the muscles.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Staying active
  • Eating enough fibre to avoid constipation
  • Not ignoring early signs of leakage

If symptoms persist, it’s best to consult a gynaecologist early so that the problem can be treated before it worsens.

Conclusion

No matter which birthing method you choose, it is crucial to continue maintaining your pelvic floor and bladder health. While women who undergo natural vaginal deliveries may be at a greater risk of urinary incontinence, the condition can be prevented with proper lifestyle choices. Ensuring that you stay active, maintain a healthy weight, and eat well can make a whole lot of difference. Moreover, consulting a doctor can guide you in a better direction.

Read Next

3 Menstrual Hygiene Tips To Follow During Monsoon

Disclaimer

TAGS