How to Cut Down on Toilet Trips in Late Pregnancy

Between the masses of extra blood in your body (meaning more fluids running through your kidneys) and the pressure of your ever-expanding (shall we say giant?) uterus, it’s no wonder you’re spending so much time, er, powdering your nose. You won’t find total relief until baby arrives, but here are three tips for spending a little less time on the toilet:

• Get it all out. Make an effort to empty your bladder completely each time you pee. Lean forward to add a little pressure to your bladder and get all the urine out. Bonus: This also helps prevent UTIs.

• Drink the right stuff. Stay away from coffee, tea and alcohol, all of which can keep you running to the ladies room. (You should be steering clear of alcohol and caffeine anyway, of course.)

• Ease up in the evening. Curbing your liquid intake in the hours before bedtime might make your nightly bathroom runs less frequent. If you go this route, just be sure to get plenty of fluids in the daytime—hydration is extra important as you move towards the big day.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.