paper towel test

I just got done with a paper towel test.

Through the University of Michigan, I am participating in a research study on pregnancy and its related effects to incontinence. Yep, you heard me right. Incontinence. Peeing when you don't mean to. I'm not a stranger to that--at all. In fact, throughout college I was notorious for well, you know....whenever I would laugh too hard. And I laughed a lot in college.

So, here I am 7 years later, pregnant, and participating in a research study on not being able to control your bladder--both during and after pregnancy. I just had to drink two 8 oz. glasses of water, wait an hour, then hold a paper towel "underneath" and cough really hard three times....and see if anything comes out. I already had to do this test about 2 months ago and I passed with flying colors. No leakage. Someone give me a blue ribbon!

I'm 35 weeks now and I'm thinkin' those muscles aren't working quite as well these days. I'm also thinking after today's test that a yellow honorable mention ribbon is in order :).

Even though its just a paper towel test, I feel like I'm entering into a whole new stage of life now. A stage where things on and in my body don't work quite as well and they aren't quite as firm.... ah, motherhood!

I'm thinking that even though i don't like it, its a small price to pay for what I get in exchange. So, here's to all the mothers out there who may not pass the paper towel test anymore. Cheers!