Intrapartum and postpartum bladder management: the poor relation of modern obstetrics

Abstract

Pelvic floor dysfunction represents a huge burden of disease globally. Poor bladder care in labour and the postnatal period is a risk factor for the development of pelvic floor disorders, in particular voiding dysfunction, which can have a long-lasting detrimental impact on a woman's quality of life, physical and mental wellbeing. If left untreated postpartum urinary retention can lead to repetitive overdistension injury and permanent detrusor muscle damage. It is therefore imperative to raise awareness of the need for bladder care in labour and postpartum, and to develop strategies that will improve recognition of the symptoms of voiding dysfunction and lead to more timely intervention. This paper will provide an overview of peripartum bladder care, summarise the current evidence, make recommendations for best practice and suggest opportunities for further research.