One in three women experience urinary incontinence postpartum. Most just live with it. They don’t have to.

By Sara Goldstein | Updated May 22, 2026

The experience of postpartum urinary incontinence can be startling and deeply personal. For many, it’s an unexpected consequence of childbirth, a bodily shift that can feel both alarming and isolating. Sara Goldstein, a mother who experienced a significant bladder leak shortly after giving birth, shares her journey and introduces Uresta, a groundbreaking FDA-approved over-the-counter solution. This article delves into the prevalence of urinary incontinence, its impact on women’s lives, and the innovative approach offered by Uresta.

The Pervasive Reality of Postpartum Incontinence

The statistics surrounding postpartum urinary incontinence are significant, highlighting a widespread issue that often goes unaddressed. Studies indicate that approximately one in three women experience urinary incontinence in the first year postpartum. This number escalates with age, with up to 50% of women experiencing incontinence by menopause. Despite the high prevalence, many women feel they must simply "live with it," leading to a significant impact on their quality of life.

This normalization of incontinence is a critical issue, according to Lauren Barker, co-founder and CEO of Uresta. Barker, herself a mother, emphasizes that while incontinence may not be life-threatening, it profoundly affects daily life. She recounts a conversation with a woman in her mid-60s who had been managing leaks since her first child, three decades prior. The woman’s story of a gala event, where she had to discreetly manage an accident, underscores the long-lasting emotional and practical toll of this condition. The sentiment, "I wish I’d had this product," resonates with the unspoken struggles of countless women.

The Gap in Current Solutions

Historically, the options for managing urinary incontinence have been limited and often fall short. Pelvic floor physical therapy is highly effective, yet it remains chronically under-referred in many healthcare systems, particularly in the United States and Canada, unlike in France and the UK where it is a standard part of postpartum care.

Prescription pessaries, medical devices fitted by a physician, have also been available. However, Barker describes the fitting process as invasive and often involves a series of uncomfortable fittings and physical tests. The retention rate for these devices is reportedly low, around 16%, indicating a significant unmet need for more accessible and effective solutions. This gap in effective, user-friendly treatments has left many women resigned to managing their symptoms without adequate support.

Introducing Uresta: A Revolutionary Approach

Uresta represents a significant advancement in addressing urinary incontinence, distinguishing itself as the first FDA-approved, over-the-counter solution that can be fitted at home without a prescription. Barker likens Uresta to "a bra for your bladder," a simple yet effective analogy that captures its supportive function.

How Uresta Works:

The Uresta device is inserted vaginally and rests just below the urethra. Its unique wide bell shape is designed to provide counter-pressure. When a sudden increase in intra-abdominal pressure occurs – such as during a sneeze, cough, or jump – the Uresta device offers support to hold the urethra in place, preventing leaks. Crucially, Uresta does not block the urethra, allowing for normal urination. It functions as a support mechanism rather than a plug.

User Experience and Fit:

Uresta is available in five sizes, with a starter kit typically including three sizes (small, medium, large) that are designed to fit 90% of women. The company offers to send the smallest or largest sizes free of charge if needed, ensuring a proper fit for a wider range of users.

The key to Uresta’s effectiveness lies in achieving the correct fit. Barker notes that if the device is uncomfortable, it is likely not inserted far enough. Similar to the insertion of a menstrual cup, Uresta needs to clear the pubic bone to rest in the correct position. The goal is for leaks to stop without causing discomfort, allowing the user to continue normal urination.

Personal Trial and Effectiveness

In a personal test, the author, a seasoned menstrual cup user, found the insertion of Uresta to be slightly more involved than a menstrual cup due to its solid, non-collapsible nature. It requires a moment to maneuver past the pubic bone. However, with the use of lubricant, the insertion becomes manageable. Once correctly positioned, the device is virtually unnoticeable, providing no sensation or discomfort.

The true test came during a trampoline class, a common scenario where women often experience leaks. Goldstein reported no incidents of leakage throughout the entire class, which involved jumping, twisting, and high-impact movements. She even forgot she was wearing it until it was time for removal. The removal process was described as easy. The ability to urinate normally with the device in place, and the option to wear it for extended periods, even overnight, highlights its practicality.

Important Considerations:

While Uresta offers a promising solution, it’s important to note a few points:

- Postpartum Adjustments: Women in the newly postpartum period may find their required size changes over time as their bodies recover. Breastfeeding, due to estrogen drop, can also temporarily worsen incontinence. Uresta’s customer service is noted for its flexibility in exchanging sizes.
- Not a Pelvic Trainer: Uresta is designed for leak support, not for improving pelvic floor strength over time. While it does not exacerbate incontinence, it does not actively train the pelvic floor muscles.
- Clinical Studies: Multiple clinical studies conducted by Uresta have not indicated any worsening of incontinence with the use of their product.
The Impact of Freedom from Leaks

Barker emphasizes a crucial realization: women often underestimate the extent to which leaks impact their lives until they are no longer an issue. The freedom from constant worry about leaks can unlock new levels of participation in activities, reduce self-consciousness, and improve overall confidence. The normalization of incontinence has led many women to believe it’s an unavoidable part of motherhood or aging, but Uresta challenges this notion.

The subtle ways incontinence affects daily life are often overlooked. This includes avoiding certain physical activities, constantly mapping out bathroom locations, defaulting to dark clothing, and simply accepting leaks as a cost of doing business. Uresta offers an alternative, empowering women to reclaim their comfort and freedom.

Accessibility and Affordability

Uresta is available directly through its website, uresta.com. The starter kit is priced at $179 and includes three sizes. The first size exchange is complimentary, facilitating a better fit. Furthermore, Uresta is eligible for Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) reimbursement, making it a more financially accessible option for many.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uresta

Is Uresta FDA Approved?
Yes, Uresta is the only FDA-approved reusable over-the-counter bladder support device available in the U.S. This approval means no prescription is required, and users can self-fit the device at home without needing a doctor’s appointment.

How Much Does Uresta Cost?
The Uresta Starter Kit, which includes three of the most common sizes, costs $179. The devices are reusable, but the company recommends replacement after one year of use. It is also eligible for HSA and FSA.

Can You Use Uresta Postpartum?
Yes, Uresta is particularly beneficial for postpartum women. The brand acknowledges that size needs may change and offers free size exchanges within 30 days.

Conclusion: Reclaiming Confidence and Comfort

The pervasive issue of urinary incontinence, particularly in the postpartum period, has long been accepted as an unfortunate reality for many women. Uresta’s innovative, FDA-approved, over-the-counter solution offers a tangible path toward regaining confidence and comfort. By providing accessible and effective support, Uresta empowers women to break free from the limitations of bladder leaks and fully engage in their lives without compromise. The product’s design, user experience, and accessibility mark a significant step forward in women’s health, addressing a long-standing need with a practical and empowering solution.
