Dealing With Pelvic Floor Disorders After Childbirth: Tips And Treatments

Childbirth can bring immense joy to a woman's life, but it can also bring certain physical changes, especially in the pelvic region. The pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, bowel, and uterus, and childbirth can weaken or damage these muscles. Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) are common after childbirth, and they can cause various problems such as urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. In this article, we will discuss the types of PFDs that may occur after childbirth and provide tips to deal with them.

Types of Pelvic Floor Disorders (PFDs)

Urinary incontinence:This is the involuntary leakage of urine, and it is a common PFD after childbirth. Urinary incontinence can be of two types - stress incontinence and urge incontinence. Stress incontinence occurs when there is pressure on the bladder, such as during coughing, sneezing, or exercising. Urge incontinence, on the other hand, occurs when there is a sudden urge to urinate and the bladder muscles contract involuntarily.
Fecal incontinence: This is the involuntary leakage of feces, and it can occur due to weak or damaged pelvic floor muscles.
Pelvic organ prolapse: This occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, or rectum) drop down from their normal position and push against the vaginal walls. Pelvic organ prolapse can cause discomfort, pain, and urinary or fecal incontinence.
Sexual dysfunction: Pelvic floor disorders can also lead to sexual dysfunction, such as pain during intercourse, decreased sexual satisfaction, or difficulty achieving orgasm.

Tips to Deal with Pelvic Floor Disorders (PFDs)

Kegel exercises: Kegel exercises are the most effective way to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles that control urination. Regular Kegel exercises can help reduce the symptoms of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
Biofeedback therapy: This therapy uses sensors to measure the strength and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles. It can help women learn how to contract and relax these muscles properly.
Vaginal pessary: A pessary is a device that is inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs. It can be helpful for women with pelvic organ prolapse.
Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and practicing good bowel habits can help reduce the risk of PFDs.
Medical treatments: In severe cases, medical treatments such as surgery may be necessary to treat PFDs.

Dealing with PFDs after childbirth can be challenging, but it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional. With the right treatment and self-care, women can manage PFDs and enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.