The reality: postpartum leaks are common
The first few months after birth are often wrapped in soft-focus language - bonding, nesting, slowing down. But there’s a quieter, less talked-about reality many new parents experience: bladder leaks.
That’s why Grace & Green has launched “The Fourth Trimester Is Leaky” - a campaign to normalise postpartum bodies, start honest conversations, and make sure no one feels unprepared or unsupported.
Our research found that half of mothers who experience bladder leaks first noticed symptoms within the first year after childbirth. For many, it isn’t a short-term issue either, with 43% saying leaks remain an ongoing part of daily life*.
The hidden impact of postpartum leaks
Postpartum leaks don’t just affect physical recovery. They shape routines, confidence and relationships in ways people rarely talk about openly.
Nearly half (45%) of mothers admitted they deliberately dehydrate themselves before going out or doing activities because they’re worried about leaking. At a time when new parents most need hydration, rest and recovery, many are actively restricting themselves out of fear and embarrassment.
The impact extends into everyday life too.
How leaks affect daily life
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Nearly 40% avoid wearing certain colours or clothing that could make leaks more visible
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A quarter have avoided sex and physical intimacy
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13% have stopped exercising or taking part in hobbies
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13% feel unable to fully play with their children because they’re worried about leaking
Being a new parent is hard enough without feeling like your body is limiting how you live your life.
Why so many people stay silent
Despite how common postpartum leaks are, stigma still stops many people from talking about them or seeking support.
Our research found:
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18% haven’t spoken to anyone about their symptoms
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Only 39% have spoken to a GP or medical professional
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Just 36% have discussed leaks with their partner
When something so common is rarely discussed openly, it can leave new parents feeling isolated during a time when support matters most.
Returning to work with postpartum leaks
For many parents, returning to work introduces another layer of anxiety.
In fact, 78% of new mums say they’ve experienced bladder leaks after returning to work.
Whether it’s long commutes, back-to-back meetings or worrying about visible leaks in certain clothing, many parents feel pressure to manage symptoms quietly while readjusting to work life and parenthood simultaneously.
Yet postpartum recovery is still rarely acknowledged properly in workplace support systems, leaving many to navigate it alone.
What actually helps during the fourth trimester
Support during postpartum recovery should be practical, accessible and free from shame.
Many new parents adapt their routines around bladder leaks, from avoiding hydration to skipping exercise or social situations, but having access to the right support, products and conversations can make a huge difference to both physical recovery and confidence.
That’s why honest conversations around postpartum recovery really matter. The more openly we talk about leaks, recovery and the realities of the fourth trimester, the less isolated new parents will feel.
Introducing The Leaky Kit
Designed for the realities of postpartum recovery, the Leaky Kit supports all the bodily leaks that can come with the fourth trimester, with products you’ll actually want to use.
What’s inside the kit
The kit includes:
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Organic bamboo bladder care liners and pads
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Organic bamboo period pads and liners
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Reusable organic bamboo breast pads
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Biodegradable wipes
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Natural deodorant
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Optional add-ons like period pants
Made with plant-based materials, the range is designed to offer reliable support that’s better for bodies and better for the planet.
New parents are often gifted things for the baby, but rarely for themselves. The Leaky Kit is designed to change that, offering practical support for recovery at a time when people need it most.
Let’s change the conversation
The fourth trimester is real. And for many people, it’s leaky.
Whether it’s milk, tears, blood or bladder leaks, postpartum bodies deserve support, not shame.
Shop the Leaky Kit today, the perfect gift to a new or parent-to-be, or remove the hassle for yourself, by buying a one-stop-shop of everything you need for leaks. The right products should support you from postpartum recovery and beyond.
* The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2000 people (aged 18+) who have given birth in the last 10 years and have experienced bladder leaks at some point since. The data was collected between 22.04.2026-28.04.2026. Censuswide is a member of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the British Polling Council (BPC), and a signatory of the Global Data Quality Pledge. We adhere to the MRS Code of Conduct and ESOMAR principles.
