Having a baby can be one of the most magical experiences of a woman’s life, but the postnatal period is not without its challenges.

Aside from sleepless nights and feeding schedules, many new mothers also experience postpartum problems with their pelvic floor. Postnatal pelvic floor disorder is not uncommon and can lead to long-term problems if not identified and treated early on.

What is Postnatal Pelvic Floor Disorder?

Postnatal pelvic floor disorder is a broad term that encompasses all the issues women may experience with their pelvic floor muscles following childbirth.

During pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles, which support the uterus, bladder, and rectum, can become stretched or damaged. This can result in incontinence, pain, and discomfort.

Symptoms of Postnatal Pelvic Floor Disorder

Postnatal pelvic floor disorder can manifest in a variety of ways and may vary from woman to woman. However, some common symptoms to look out for include:.

Incontinence (urinary or fecal)
Feeling of pressure or fullness in the vagina or rectum
Painful intercourse
Pelvic pain or discomfort
Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels

Causes of Postnatal Pelvic Floor Disorder

Several factors can contribute to the development of postnatal pelvic floor disorder. These include:.

Lengthy labor or difficult delivery
Forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery
Episiotomy (surgical cut made during delivery to enlarge the vaginal opening)
Large baby or multiple births
Weight gain during pregnancy
Genetic predisposition

Diagnosing Postnatal Pelvic Floor Disorder

If you suspect you may be experiencing postnatal pelvic floor disorder, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider.

They will ask you about your symptoms and conduct a physical examination to assess the strength and function of your pelvic floor muscles. In some cases, your healthcare provider may also recommend additional tests, such as an ultrasound or urodynamic study.

Treatment for Postnatal Pelvic Floor Disorder

The good news is that postnatal pelvic floor disorder is treatable. Your healthcare provider will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of your condition.

Some possible treatment options include:.

Pelvic floor muscle exercises (also known as Kegels)
Physical therapy
Surgery (in more severe cases)

Preventing Postnatal Pelvic Floor Disorder

While it may not always be preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing postnatal pelvic floor disorder. These include:.

Doing pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels) throughout pregnancy and in the postnatal period
Avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the pelvic floor, such as heavy lifting or high-impact exercise
Maintaining a healthy weight
Practicing good bowel and bladder habits (using the restroom when needed, not holding in urine or stool, etc.)

When to Seek Help

If you are experiencing symptoms of postnatal pelvic floor disorder, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider right away. Untreated postnatal pelvic floor disorder can lead to long-term complications and may even require surgery to repair.

By seeking help early on, you can increase your chances of successfully managing your symptoms and avoiding the need for more invasive interventions.

Conclusion

Postnatal pelvic floor disorder is a common issue that affects many women following childbirth.

By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for postnatal pelvic floor disorder, women can take an active role in their health and seek help when needed. With the right care and support, it is possible to manage postnatal pelvic floor disorder and minimize its impact on daily life.