I know you feel me, mamas, because it happens to you, too.
A sneeze or giggle can do it. Some trampoline fun is almost a guarantee. But it’s the dreaded coughing attack that had me running from a communal cottage kitchen table this summer—headed straight for the bathroom. Because I knew what was coming.
The pee.
Oh, was there pee. I coughed, then peed. Coughed, and peed. Coughed again. Peed again. I can only thank the universe for giving me quick reflexes and fast legs to take me to a toilet in time.
After giving birth to two large babies in a matter of minutes both times, there are no number of Kegels in the world that can prevent the inevitable bursts of pee that escape during those sneezes, giggles, jumps and coughs.
There’s nothing wrong with having ladybits that have been put through the ringer by childbirth. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about either. Frankly, it’s probably one of the most universal truths we share as mothers who’ve had babies through the southern tunnel.
But, boy, if only I could predict how much might escape.
I’ve learned to cross my legs, ever so gracefully, when I feel this clandestine moment coming on. Most of the time, it works. But I’d be lying if I didn’t tell you that there have been, er, mishaps.
So if you ever hear me laugh wildly and follow it up with, “I just peed in my pants a little,” you can trust that I’m not kidding around.
And that’s probably why when a set of Poise Pads arrived at my doorstep one day while my mom was over watching my kids, she got just as excited as when my kids see the FedEx truck come rolling down the street.
“Can I have those?” she asked.
Not so fast, mom. Not. So. Fast.
Obviously, I had to put them to the test. I mean, that’s what I do, right? And since I know you want TMI, here’s how I tested them: instead of clenching in all my Kegel glory during a particularly enthusiastic round of jumping jacks, I channelled Elsa. That’s right — I let it go.
And let me tell you ladies, these suckers work wonders, and they’re thin so you won’t even notice you’re wearing them. I approve.
Since I know you need these as much as I do, I’m happy to tell you that Poise is offering a $2 off coupon at Walmart right now. Just for you.
Happy jumping-coughing-sneezing-laughing!
DISCLAIMER: Poise compensated me for this post. But the pee story is real, as is my mom’s enthusiastic response to seeing Poise Pads come to the door. Opinions are always my own.
Robyn Bellefleur says
It has happened to me, mostly when I cough.
Robyn Bellefleur says
It has happened to me, mostly when I cough.
Judy Hunting says
Ever since I had my daughter sneezing, coughing or laughing causes this. It can be embarrassing!
Judy Hunting says
Ever since I had my daughter sneezing, coughing or laughing causes this. It can be embarrassing!
Valerie Gibson says
I use these. They work well.
Valerie Gibson says
I use these. They work well.
gayle b says
I’ve always had a weak bladder and even as a kid walking home from school, the cold would play havoc with my bladder, I’d get home and run right into the bathroom. Now that I am older and had two babies, I sometimes have to wear some protection while travelling or in situations where toilets may not be handy…just in case. I find Poise to be one of the more comfortable products.
gayle b says
I’ve always had a weak bladder and even as a kid walking home from school, the cold would play havoc with my bladder, I’d get home and run right into the bathroom. Now that I am older and had two babies, I sometimes have to wear some protection while travelling or in situations where toilets may not be handy…just in case. I find Poise to be one of the more comfortable products.
Karla Sceviour says
I have never experienced LBL ,,yet,,but I know many that do.
Karla Sceviour says
I have never experienced LBL ,,yet,,but I know many that do.
Huguette E. says
This is something we almost all need with age. Those sneezing or laughing moments are hard on the bladder.
Huguette E. says
This is something we almost all need with age. Those sneezing or laughing moments are hard on the bladder.
Elizabeth R says
These are such a great idea for those accidental moments!
Elizabeth R says
These are such a great idea for those accidental moments!
Pam says
I find that as I get older I am having more ‘pee problems” and have been thinking about trying Poise for everyday protection.
Pam says
I find that as I get older I am having more ‘pee problems” and have been thinking about trying Poise for everyday protection.
Betty S says
I always thought I would not be the one to have to wear anything for incontinence, but I am sadly mistaken, I love that there is a discrete pad to use
Betty S says
I always thought I would not be the one to have to wear anything for incontinence, but I am sadly mistaken, I love that there is a discrete pad to use
zahra p says
I am going to try out Poise. I use panty liners for other reasons so no reason not to try a new brand.
zahra p says
I am going to try out Poise. I use panty liners for other reasons so no reason not to try a new brand.
Carolyn R says
Great post! I never thought anyone could make this topic fun…but you did it! Lol. I love Poise also, they are so comfortable and have sure saved the day on more than one occasion! 🙂
Carolyn R says
Great post! I never thought anyone could make this topic fun…but you did it! Lol. I love Poise also, they are so comfortable and have sure saved the day on more than one occasion! 🙂
Nancy Parsons says
That is funny and so true. After having 5 kids my bladder will never be the same. It is nice to know that there is something out there that is not bulky. It is also nice to know that I am not alone lol.
Nancy Parsons says
That is funny and so true. After having 5 kids my bladder will never be the same. It is nice to know that there is something out there that is not bulky. It is also nice to know that I am not alone lol.
AD says
I went through surgery in July and as a result, my bladder and the muscles around my urinary tract weakened. I thought this would be temporary and limited to a short period just after the surgery (as it was the last few times I underwent this), BUT so not the case! Maybe its aging… Maybe its the meds I am on… But there is pee. When I sneeze, when I laugh suddenly, when I have a coughing fit. It sucks and its humiliating. I have tried Poise Panty Liners and frankly they have saved my behind and pants/undies more than once!
AD says
I went through surgery in July and as a result, my bladder and the muscles around my urinary tract weakened. I thought this would be temporary and limited to a short period just after the surgery (as it was the last few times I underwent this), BUT so not the case! Maybe its aging… Maybe its the meds I am on… But there is pee. When I sneeze, when I laugh suddenly, when I have a coughing fit. It sucks and its humiliating. I have tried Poise Panty Liners and frankly they have saved my behind and pants/undies more than once!
nicole aben says
Pantyliners come in so so handy, especially post babies!
nicole aben says
Pantyliners come in so so handy, especially post babies!
brandy champion says
I won’t be afraid to sneeze anymore
brandy champion says
I won’t be afraid to sneeze anymore
Leanne M says
thanks for the link for the coupon…4 babies later I can’t do anything without peeing myself
Leanne M says
thanks for the link for the coupon…4 babies later I can’t do anything without peeing myself
Rebecca H says
I should really try these. After my first, I get “it” with a sneeze, and, a laugh, and I hate talking about it to anyone! Thanks for the info, I should give these a try!
Rebecca H says
I should really try these. After my first, I get “it” with a sneeze, and, a laugh, and I hate talking about it to anyone! Thanks for the info, I should give these a try!
Wendy hutton says
great article been experiencing LBL for year
Wendy hutton says
great article been experiencing LBL for year
photomum says
Love to have pantyliners on hand at all times! This is a great product!
photomum says
Love to have pantyliners on hand at all times! This is a great product!
Kayla Gilbert says
Such a cute little anecdote! Many of us can definitely relate to having an “accident”. It happens to most of us and it’s so nice that products like Poise are available for women to feel more comfortable and confidente. I’ve never been in labour before (so my ladyparts are still intaked!), however, I’ve had accidents before where Poise could have come in handy. (Like when I am on my long runs and suddently feel the need to go!)
Kayla Gilbert says
Such a cute little anecdote! Many of us can definitely relate to having an “accident”. It happens to most of us and it’s so nice that products like Poise are available for women to feel more comfortable and confidente. I’ve never been in labour before (so my ladyparts are still intaked!), however, I’ve had accidents before where Poise could have come in handy. (Like when I am on my long runs and suddently feel the need to go!)
Nate says
very good product
Nate says
very good product
prairiebelle says
Since my son was born I have had this problem! I laugh too hard, cough too hard or sneeze too hard and boom! K well not boom but something happens!!!! I have used pads but should be trying poise. Thank you for sharing and it is nice to know that I am not the only one out there with this problem. It has always seemed to be a bit of a taboo topic to admit to having this problem
prairiebelle says
Since my son was born I have had this problem! I laugh too hard, cough too hard or sneeze too hard and boom! K well not boom but something happens!!!! I have used pads but should be trying poise. Thank you for sharing and it is nice to know that I am not the only one out there with this problem. It has always seemed to be a bit of a taboo topic to admit to having this problem
Sandi Tymchuk says
I admire your attitude–very positive. FYI–There are options for urinary incontinence in addition to–or other than–Kegels. A urogynecologist can help diagnose and treat.
Sandi Tymchuk says
I admire your attitude–very positive. FYI–There are options for urinary incontinence in addition to–or other than–Kegels. A urogynecologist can help diagnose and treat.
Danielle Floyd (@wannawin4) says
Thanks for the chance. Once I sneezed before I could make it to the bathroom in the morning and peed myself a bit, lol. I guess we’ve all been there.
Danielle Floyd (@wannawin4) says
Thanks for the chance. Once I sneezed before I could make it to the bathroom in the morning and peed myself a bit, lol. I guess we’ve all been there.
Amanda Mercier {According to Amanda} says
Yes… i have to say that jumping and laughing have never been the same since my babies….
Also want to say that I love you writing on this topic to normalize what so many women are too embarrassed to speak of 🙂
Amanda Mercier {According to Amanda} says
Yes… i have to say that jumping and laughing have never been the same since my babies….
Also want to say that I love you writing on this topic to normalize what so many women are too embarrassed to speak of 🙂
Wanda Bergman says
This is not a problem of mine, but I’ve heard wonderful things about Poise.
Wanda Bergman says
This is not a problem of mine, but I’ve heard wonderful things about Poise.
Kristi says
It’s great to see a review about a product so many women can use, I like knowing how thin they are!
Kristi says
It’s great to see a review about a product so many women can use, I like knowing how thin they are!
LisaN says
In my 50’s and most of my friends have the same problem I have. Pesky leakage. I’ve not tried it, but will try Poise after reading the web and comments. thanks for the giveaway!
LisaN says
In my 50’s and most of my friends have the same problem I have. Pesky leakage. I’ve not tried it, but will try Poise after reading the web and comments. thanks for the giveaway!
LILLIAN BROWN says
I have not needed to use these YET but when I do Poise will be my choice
LILLIAN BROWN says
I have not needed to use these YET but when I do Poise will be my choice
Laurie W. says
Thankfully I haven’t needed to use any kind of bladder protection product yet but if and when I do I think I will be using Poise.
Laurie W. says
Thankfully I haven’t needed to use any kind of bladder protection product yet but if and when I do I think I will be using Poise.
LOUANN BELL says
Haven’t needed them yet but great to know there is a great product out there if ever the need arises!
LOUANN BELL says
Haven’t needed them yet but great to know there is a great product out there if ever the need arises!
Lana Hood says
It is an ongoing challenge. Love that they are thin but effective.
Lana Hood says
It is an ongoing challenge. Love that they are thin but effective.
Heather A says
Great article! I can remember “embarrasing” myself just by stepping off a curb. Poise pads are life savers.
Heather A says
Great article! I can remember “embarrasing” myself just by stepping off a curb. Poise pads are life savers.
Nicole B says
I can so relate. We bought a trampoline this summer. Enough said. I learned to wear a pad before I got on!!
Nicole B says
I can so relate. We bought a trampoline this summer. Enough said. I learned to wear a pad before I got on!!
melinda anderson says
I love POISE. the best ever!
melinda anderson says
I love POISE. the best ever!
Amy Lovell says
I havent had it happen yet. Im hoping I wont have it happen at all. But if so. At least I know where to go for pads!
Amy Lovell says
I havent had it happen yet. Im hoping I wont have it happen at all. But if so. At least I know where to go for pads!
KellyPC says
I haven’t had it happen yet, hoping it won’t but I’m happy that I won’t be alone!
KellyPC says
I haven’t had it happen yet, hoping it won’t but I’m happy that I won’t be alone!
SweetPanda says
Love your article! It’s so true that since I gave birth to two kids, when I sneeze, when I laugh, I wet my panty so easily. The most embarrass moment is when I am in the office when this happens. I always try to clean up in the bathroom right away but I constantly seem to smell of odor. I constantly remind myself that I should bring something in my purse or wear something but I keep on forgetting about it since it happens only when there’s certain action that I do.
SweetPanda says
Love your article! It’s so true that since I gave birth to two kids, when I sneeze, when I laugh, I wet my panty so easily. The most embarrass moment is when I am in the office when this happens. I always try to clean up in the bathroom right away but I constantly seem to smell of odor. I constantly remind myself that I should bring something in my purse or wear something but I keep on forgetting about it since it happens only when there’s certain action that I do.
Victoria Ess says
These are so so so handy! I like that they are so thin and sound comfortable!
Victoria Ess says
These are so so so handy! I like that they are so thin and sound comfortable!
Angela Mitchell says
After having my son I’ve had trouble too especially when sneezing or when touching water! I just have to touch the tap water and I’m clenching and running to the bathroom. I haven’t tried Poise before but I’ll be checking them out I think:)
Angela Mitchell says
After having my son I’ve had trouble too especially when sneezing or when touching water! I just have to touch the tap water and I’m clenching and running to the bathroom. I haven’t tried Poise before but I’ll be checking them out I think:)
Tara says
It is sad and yet so comforting to read the comments! So many women in the same boat having to cross their legs to cough or laugh, never mind trying to do a class at the gym! Poise has saved me more times than I can count. They are an every day thing for me and have been for years! I do believe I single-handedly keep the company in business!
Tara says
It is sad and yet so comforting to read the comments! So many women in the same boat having to cross their legs to cough or laugh, never mind trying to do a class at the gym! Poise has saved me more times than I can count. They are an every day thing for me and have been for years! I do believe I single-handedly keep the company in business!
Karen Anne Burns says
Everytime I sneeze I do the leg cross just in case! 3 babies will do that do you! I love Poise!
Karen Anne Burns says
Everytime I sneeze I do the leg cross just in case! 3 babies will do that do you! I love Poise!
Janet B says
Seriously, I just delivered baby #2 and am probably going to need a little rehab. It’s nice to know I’m not alone!
Janet B says
Seriously, I just delivered baby #2 and am probably going to need a little rehab. It’s nice to know I’m not alone!
Amie says
I love this , because the very worst thing about it is you feel alone , you know your not but you feel that way , to read your story and all these comments I just feel normal , its so nice ! Next time Im running towards the bathroom , ill know some where out there someone is racing with me ! But just incase its ok I got back up !
Amie says
I love this , because the very worst thing about it is you feel alone , you know your not but you feel that way , to read your story and all these comments I just feel normal , its so nice ! Next time Im running towards the bathroom , ill know some where out there someone is racing with me ! But just incase its ok I got back up !
Ruth Swansburg says
Oh the pee….here I am potty training a 2 year old and he’s not the only one having “mistakes”. My boys are 10 years apart, so I have not only had 2 pregnancies, but I am now old too! HA! The joys of being a woman (this is just one of them, of course).
Poise liners are a product I purchase regularly now. I used to use regular panty liners, but these work so much better and are just as thin.
Thanks for the laugh 🙂 great review.
Ruth Swansburg says
Oh the pee….here I am potty training a 2 year old and he’s not the only one having “mistakes”. My boys are 10 years apart, so I have not only had 2 pregnancies, but I am now old too! HA! The joys of being a woman (this is just one of them, of course).
Poise liners are a product I purchase regularly now. I used to use regular panty liners, but these work so much better and are just as thin.
Thanks for the laugh 🙂 great review.
Andrea B. says
These would be great if I am ever going to brave the trampoline again….*oh the humanity*
Andrea B. says
These would be great if I am ever going to brave the trampoline again….*oh the humanity*
Wendy says
After having a hysterectomy, I need these. I find myself having to run to the bathroom many times. Laughing and sneezing are not easyt o do either.
Wendy says
After having a hysterectomy, I need these. I find myself having to run to the bathroom many times. Laughing and sneezing are not easyt o do either.
Amanda Weatherby says
This hit home and had been happening to me for almost a year now.I was told it was because I had 2 children.I have tried this product and have never been more happy not worrying about leaking….
Amanda Weatherby says
This hit home and had been happening to me for almost a year now.I was told it was because I had 2 children.I have tried this product and have never been more happy not worrying about leaking….
Karen C Hill says
This is the biggest and truest from the ever long list of “Things They Don’t Tell You About Mommyhood” lol The laughter from our Girls Nights In will never be the same for my lovely group of friends
Karen C Hill says
This is the biggest and truest from the ever long list of “Things They Don’t Tell You About Mommyhood” lol The laughter from our Girls Nights In will never be the same for my lovely group of friends
Jessica says
I’m still using poise pads- one year after I have given birth to my beautiful baby girl. I was tired of crossing my legs every time I had to sneeze! No bladder is the same after babies!! ❤️
Jessica says
I’m still using poise pads- one year after I have given birth to my beautiful baby girl. I was tired of crossing my legs every time I had to sneeze! No bladder is the same after babies!! ❤️
Stacey says
Poise literally saved my diginity during my twin pregnancy earlier this year. The twincesses arrived three months ago and I am still using Poise for piece of mind. Now back to my keegals lol.
Stacey says
Poise literally saved my diginity during my twin pregnancy earlier this year. The twincesses arrived three months ago and I am still using Poise for piece of mind. Now back to my keegals lol.
Stephanie says
OMG I died laughing reading this…because I can relate. My coworkers warned me when I was pregnant with my first that soon I would understand why you often see moms crossing their legs whenever they laugh, cough, or sneeze. When I was about 8 months pregnant with my first, I was sitting cross-legged watching TV. I laughed…and dignity was lost as I peed all over myself. Sigh. It only went downhill from there.
Stephanie says
OMG I died laughing reading this…because I can relate. My coworkers warned me when I was pregnant with my first that soon I would understand why you often see moms crossing their legs whenever they laugh, cough, or sneeze. When I was about 8 months pregnant with my first, I was sitting cross-legged watching TV. I laughed…and dignity was lost as I peed all over myself. Sigh. It only went downhill from there.
Mom Cafe says
Love a little bit of truth to an article! 🙂 My bladder will never be the same!
Mom Cafe says
Love a little bit of truth to an article! 🙂 My bladder will never be the same!
katy says
Every time I sneeze 🙁 the joys of motherhood. I uses to be able to hold it for a long time. Now I’m the one telling my husband to pull over. Lol
katy says
Every time I sneeze 🙁 the joys of motherhood. I uses to be able to hold it for a long time. Now I’m the one telling my husband to pull over. Lol
Brandee H says
This made me laugh!! My son now is so used to me saying I have to pee!, he looks for the washrooms wherever we go. It is amazing what childbirth does to your body!! My mom could have used these during chemo, some days we were not fast enough! Love that there are products like this that let women get back to living and laughing! 🙂
Brandee H says
This made me laugh!! My son now is so used to me saying I have to pee!, he looks for the washrooms wherever we go. It is amazing what childbirth does to your body!! My mom could have used these during chemo, some days we were not fast enough! Love that there are products like this that let women get back to living and laughing! 🙂
Gizele says
I’m sure that at one time or another , each one of us will need these. Great that they are so thin. Sounds like a wonderful product!
Gizele says
I’m sure that at one time or another , each one of us will need these. Great that they are so thin. Sounds like a wonderful product!
Shelley Nelson says
Hilarious article. Right after childbirth and for about 2 years I would have a flood on the floor if I coughed. I still have the occasion issue 18 years later. Poise saved me during the worst time frame -I had to wear them almost daily. yuck -I know. Now I keep them handy for when I get really bad colds and coughs or for the odd oops. great products
Shelley Nelson says
Hilarious article. Right after childbirth and for about 2 years I would have a flood on the floor if I coughed. I still have the occasion issue 18 years later. Poise saved me during the worst time frame -I had to wear them almost daily. yuck -I know. Now I keep them handy for when I get really bad colds and coughs or for the odd oops. great products
Lindsay T says
These would’ve come in handy the time I went to Sky Zone less than a year after having my second daughter! It did not help that all the friends we were there with were child-free! No one told me trampolines should be avoided post-baby!
Lindsay T says
These would’ve come in handy the time I went to Sky Zone less than a year after having my second daughter! It did not help that all the friends we were there with were child-free! No one told me trampolines should be avoided post-baby!
itsrelly says
I kagled my heart out after both kids and thankfully I don’t have this problem! I use mama cloth though anyways, no disposables for me. Just trying to save the earth and all that jazz. ?
itsrelly says
I kagled my heart out after both kids and thankfully I don’t have this problem! I use mama cloth though anyways, no disposables for me. Just trying to save the earth and all that jazz. ?
Tara says
I should try these out!!
I sometimes wear pantyliners (especially on road trips) just in case 😉
Tara says
I should try these out!!
I sometimes wear pantyliners (especially on road trips) just in case 😉
Shari says
My three year old now repeatedly shouts “I’m going to pee my pants” because she’s heard me shout it so many times as I rush to the bathroom. I should really give these a try.
Shari says
My three year old now repeatedly shouts “I’m going to pee my pants” because she’s heard me shout it so many times as I rush to the bathroom. I should really give these a try.
Nicole G says
Agreed…since having my daughter, there are so many things that cannot be pee-free anymore.
I have mastered the cross the legs before you sneeze pose. Doesn’t always work but it helps! I loving calling this a “sniss”.
I used to love skipping but can no longer do that without having to pee.
Poise definitely come in handy!!
Nicole G says
Agreed…since having my daughter, there are so many things that cannot be pee-free anymore.
I have mastered the cross the legs before you sneeze pose. Doesn’t always work but it helps! I loving calling this a “sniss”.
I used to love skipping but can no longer do that without having to pee.
Poise definitely come in handy!!
Jennifer M says
I’ve been wearing a pantyliner every day for almost 20 years after the birth of my first son for this reason. I should really switch to Poise and use the right product for the right job!!
Jennifer M says
I’ve been wearing a pantyliner every day for almost 20 years after the birth of my first son for this reason. I should really switch to Poise and use the right product for the right job!!
Lisa says
OMG… you had me at “the pee”! My Mama girlfriends and I are always laughing at how we pee ourselves a little when we are running after the kids, at workout class together (that’s the worst – jumping jacks followed by burpees). So, yes, the tribulations are real; Moms *do* pee themselves… often. I might just have to get me some of these. I’ll share them with all the ladies who commiserate with me! (And, BTW, hanks for the $2 off coupon link.)
Lisa says
OMG… you had me at “the pee”! My Mama girlfriends and I are always laughing at how we pee ourselves a little when we are running after the kids, at workout class together (that’s the worst – jumping jacks followed by burpees). So, yes, the tribulations are real; Moms *do* pee themselves… often. I might just have to get me some of these. I’ll share them with all the ladies who commiserate with me! (And, BTW, hanks for the $2 off coupon link.)