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What role does the pelvic floor play in your pre-bedtime routine and your sleep patterns? Maybe not a huge one — but trust me, there is a connection.
When patients tell me they wake up once, twice, or even three times a night to urinate, I explain that nighttime bathroom trips aren’t the best sign of a well-regulated pelvic floor. As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I teach that frequent waking often reflects habits and irritants rather than a true bladder need.
I talk to them about common bladder irritants—like caffeine, alcohol, acidic foods, and carbonated drinks—that can make the bladder more active at night. I also highlight the importance of proper hydration earlier in the day, instead of drinking most fluids right before bed.
From there, we work on retraining the bladder through consistent routines, timing voids, and supporting the pelvic floor so it can function without sending unnecessary urgency signals. With the right habits, most people can significantly reduce nighttime trips and enjoy more restful sleep.
