Pelvic Health Matters w/ Dr. Katrina Heath, DPT: Urgency/Frequency and the Pelvic Floor:

Why Do I Keep Getting Up at Night to Urinate?

Waking up multiple times at night to urinate is called urinary frequency and urgency. Ideally, no one should wake up more than once per night to use the bathroom. When this happens often in children or adults, it may be linked to pelvic floor dysfunction and should be addressed.

The first step is to look at diet and fluid habits. Avoid drinking 1–2 hours before bedtime. If thirsty, try sucking on ice instead of drinking large amounts of water. Also pay attention to how you drink—gulping large amounts quickly can increase urgency.

Monitor daily fluid intake and limit bladder irritants like soda, carbonated water, coffee, tea, wine, juices, excess sugar, and candy.

Constipation can also contribute. If bowel movements are fewer than 3–4 times per week, the rectum can press on the bladder and worsen symptoms. Improving regularity helps reduce nighttime urgency.Habits form when the body expects to wake at night, but with behavioral changes, training your bladder to go every 3–4 hours and adjusting diet, these patterns can improve.

If nighttime frequency continues, seek help from a pelvic floor physical therapist for personalized strategies and treatment.