Does Bloating Put Pressure on My Bladder?

Your belly feels bloated and tight. You're also making frequent bathroom trips lately. There may not seem like a connection between the two. But often there is a connection. Bloating can sometimes put pressure on your bladder. Here's why it happens and what you can do about it.

How Does Bloating Cause Pressure on Your Bladder?

Your bladder and intestines are neighbors in your pelvic cavity. When your intestines become bloated, they take up space around your bladder. They also squeeze against it. That pressure gives your bladder less room to expand when you pee. As a result, you feel the urge to go more often, even when your bladder isn't full.

That explains part of it, but there's also a nerve factor. Your bladder and bowels have some shared nerves. Irritation in one can cause symptoms in the other.

The Most Common Causes

Here are some of the most common causes for bladder pressure from bloating:

• Constipation. Hard stool can collect in your colon and press against your bladder.
• Gas. Too much air in your gut can expand your belly.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Urgent bathroom trips are often caused by bloating and shared nerves.
• Food. Salty foods, soda and certain meals can cause gas buildup.
• Hormonal variation. It's common to feel bloated before you start your period or during menopause.
• Food sensitivities. Gluten or dairy intolerance can cause both bloating and bladder symptoms.

What Bloating on the Bladder Feels Like

You may experience these symptoms when bloating puts pressure on your bladder:

• Peeing more often
• Peeing with urgency
• Feeling full
• Leaking urine

Tips to Reduce Bloating and Bladder Pressure

Fortunately, minor lifestyle changes can often provide relief. Most of these treatments can be done at home:

• Relieve constipation. Increase fiber gradually, drink plenty of water and stay active.
• Keep a food journal. Identify trigger foods that cause bloating and avoid them when possible.
• Drink plenty of water. It can help prevent constipation and bladder issues.
• Avoid bladder irritants. Limit caffeine, alcohol, soda and spicy foods.
• Strengthen pelvic floor muscles. Kegel exercises may improve bladder control.
• Manage stress. Anxiety can impact your intestines and bladder. Daily habits like meditation and getting in nature can help.

Talk to Your Baptist Health Urology Provider

To learn more, reach out to your Baptist Health urologist. If you don't have a urologist, you can find one by visiting our provider directory.