Bladder function plays a role in our overall pelvic floor health and function. Understanding what “normal” bladder function means can help us monitor our health and identify and address issues early on. So what is normal bladder function??
The normal bladder cycle requires coordination between the bladder detrusor muscle and the pelvic floor muscles.
- As the bladder fills, the detrusor muscle stays relaxed to allow filling, and the urethral sphincter and pelvic floor muscles contract to prevent urine leakage.
- As the bladder is about half full, you will get the first sensation to empty. Normally functioning bladders should be able to hold urine until the appropriate time.
- As the bladder gets closer to 75% filled, you will get the normal sensation to empty.
- Once it is the appropriate time to empty, the pelvic floor muscles will relax and the detrusor muscle will contract to empty the bladder.
When there is pelvic floor dysfunction, there can be changes to this normal bladder cycle. Below are the normal recommendations for bladder health and function:
- Urinary frequency: The normal emptying frequency during the day is every 2-4 hours, for a total of about 6-8 times during awake hours.
- Nighttime frequency: The normal emptying frequency at night is 0. Waking up once can be normal in those over 70.
- Urinary urgency: Normally, you should be able to delay urination for a reasonable period after sensing an urge, and be able to wait until reaching a restroom.
- Normal urine color: The typical color of urine should range from pale yellow to an amber color and can be very telling on hydration status. Significant changes in urine color should be monitored.
- Maintain continence: A normally functioning bladder should be able to prevent leakage with activities such as jumping, running, coughing, sneezing, laughing, etc.
A few quick tips to help your bladder function!
- Drink plenty of water. Most recommendations say to drink half your body weight in water daily. Drink throughout the day, not just at the beginning or end of the day.
- Avoid “just in case” urination. Try not to go to the bathroom “just because” you pass by one while shopping or “just because” you’re about to go on a road trip.
These are just a few of the recommendations and tips for healthy bladder function. If you notice that you are experiencing some differences in bladder function, reach out to the experts at Apex to help!