208- Connected Through Menopause Ep 2: Why Am I Suddenly Leaking? // Understanding Bladder Changes During Menopause

You used to be able to jump, sneeze, run, or make it home from Target without thinking twice about your bladder… And now? You’re leaking. You’re peeing “just in case.” You know exactly where every bathroom is. Or the second you pull into your driveway your bladder suddenly decides THIS IS AN EMERGENCY. 😂 What the heck changed?! In Part 2 of the Connected Through Menopause series, we’re talking specifically about the bladder changes that can show up—or become more noticeable—during perimenopause and menopause. And while hormonal changes can absolutely be part of the conversation, they aren’t necessarily the whole story. We’re talking about different types of bladder symptoms, some of the habits we develop in response to those symptoms, and why blindly adding more Kegels isn't always the answer. Most importantly, I want you to walk away knowing that while bladder changes may be common during this season of life, common does not mean you simply have to accept them. In This Episode We Explore Why bladder symptoms may appear or change during perimenopause and menopause Why leaking isn't the only bladder symptom worth paying attention to The difference between leaking with coughing, sneezing, jumping or exercise and that sudden “I HAVE TO GO” urgency How hormonal and tissue changes can play a role in urinary symptoms Why menopause isn't necessarily the entire explanation How habits like peeing “just in case,” restricting fluids, constantly bracing, or avoiding movement can become part of the bigger picture Why the same symptom doesn't always mean the same solution Why “just do Kegels” may be missing important information What your bladder patterns may be telling you How to start getting curious about your symptoms instead of assuming they're just part of getting older Why This Matters One of the biggest things I want women to stop believing is: “Well, I guess this is just what happens when you get older.” Yes, your body changes during perimenopause and menopause. And yes, those changes can affect your bladder, pelvic floor, vaginal and urinary tissues, strength, and the way your body responds to movement. But experiencing a common symptom doesn't mean you have to ignore it. It also doesn't mean every woman experiencing leaking or urgency needs the exact same solution. If two women are both leaking, but their bodies, symptoms, habits, movement patterns, and circumstances are different… Why would we automatically give them the same exercise? Understanding what's actually happening gives us much better information about what your body may need. The Big Takeaway Instead of immediately trying to fix your bladder this week, become a bladder detective. 🕵️‍♀️ Start noticing: When does urgency show up? When do you leak? Does it happen with coughing, sneezing, lifting, jumping or running? Are you going to the bathroom because you actually need to—or because you happen to see one? 😂 Are you constantly peeing “just in case”? Are you holding your breath or gripping during the movements that trigger symptoms? Have your symptoms recently changed? You don't need to obsess over every trip to the bathroom. We're simply looking for patterns. Because your symptoms are information. And once we understand the information, we can make more intentional decisions about what to do with it. Understand before you strengthen. 🌿 Ready to Understand the Bigger Picture? If you're listening to this thinking: “Okay…but how do I know what's actually happening in MY body?” That's exactly why I created Healing Beyond Kegels. Healing Beyond Kegels is my FREE pelvic floor masterclass designed to help you stop guessing, Googling random exercises, and wondering whether you're doing everything right—and start understanding the bigger picture of how your pelvic floor, core, breath, movement, and body work together. Because your pelvic floor isn't working alone. And healing is about so much more than finding the “perfect” Kegel. 🌿 Healing Beyond Kegels is coming soon. Make sure you're connected with me so you'll be one of the first to know when it's ready. Until next time, remember: Connection First. Intention Over Perfection. 💛 This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. New, persistent, worsening, or concerning urinary symptoms should be discussed with an appropriate healthcare provider. Want More Support? Inside the Pelvic Floor, Core & More App and RESTORE, we focus on helping women build strength