Have you ever noticed that after swimming in the pool, lake, or ocean, why you suddenly have to go pee? This feeling is quite common among swimmers and can be attributed to a combination of reasons. In this article, we will provide an overview of why does swimming make you pee. Also, you will get some tips on how to prevent it from happening.
What Happens When You Swim?
When we swim our bodies experience a variety of physical changes. The pressure created by the water affects our blood vessels and causes them to expand. This results in more fluid being pushed through our kidneys and into our bladder, creating a sensation that needs to be relieved. Additionally, the body also releases antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which helps to regulate our water levels. As we swim and expend energy, our bodies will reduce their production of ADH, leading to an increase in urine production.
Why Does Swimming Make You Pee?
There are a few contributing factors to why swimming makes you pee. Firstly, immersion in cold water can cause blood vessels around the bladder and kidneys to constrict, leading to an urge to urinate. Secondly, involuntary contractions of the muscles beneath your ribcage due to kicking and pulling during swimming can put extra pressure on the bladder walls as well. Lastly, when we spend a long time in the water our bodies tend to secrete more urine than normal, leading to a feeling of needing to pee.
How Can You Manage Urine Production During Swimming?
If you’re finding that swimming is causing you to urinate more than usual, then there are steps you can take to help manage it better. Firstly, make sure you do not enter cold water and try to warm up before getting into the pool or ocean. Secondly, ensure good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids both before and during your swim session. Lastly, avoid overexerting yourself as this may cause involuntary contractions of the muscles beneath your ribcage which will put extra pressure on the bladder walls.
Are there any specific techniques for controlling the urge to pee while swimming?
Yes, there are specific techniques for controlling the urge to pee while swimming. Here are a few tips:
1. Relaxing:
Take a few deep breaths and relax your body before jumping into the pool. This will help relieve any tension in your bladder, which can decrease the need to go to the bathroom.
2. Distract Yourself:
Find ways to keep yourself distracted from thinking about needing to go. Listen to music or focus on your technique as you swim instead of focusing on the urge itself.
3. Keep Hydrated:
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will prevent dehydration and may reduce frequent trips to the bathroom. However, avoid drinking too much fluid before getting in the pool as it may cause you to need to go more often.
4. Empty Bladder Before Swimming:
You can try emptying your bladder before getting into the pool so that there is less fullness and you don’t feel the urge to go as much while swimming. This can help prevent accidents and make you feel more comfortable in the water.
5. Try Compression Garments:
Compressive swimwear or support briefs can help reduce excess pressure on the bladder, making it easier to control when you have the urge to pee while swimming. Additionally, they provide extra protection against any potential accidents in the pool.
By following these tips and techniques, you can control the urge to pee while swimming and enjoy a comfortable experience in the pool.
In conclusion, It is partially due to the physical changes our bodies experience when we are in the water. The pressure created by the water affects our blood vessels and causes them to expand, releasing more fluid than usual into our kidneys and bladder. Additionally, involuntary contractions of the muscles beneath your ribcage put extra pressure on the bladder walls as well. However, there are steps you can take to help manage it better such as avoiding cold water, drinking plenty of fluids before and during your swim session, and avoiding overexerting yourself.
