5 Tips to Help Prevent Prolapse After Pregnancy

Pelvic prolapse probably isn’t on your list of what to expect after pregnancy, but it’s something we think you need to know about. The condition occurs when the pelvic organs fall, putting pressure on the vagina due to weakening of the pelvic floor muscle.

You’re at risk of prolapse if you’ve had multiple vaginal births.

At Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, our team provides comprehensive care for all health needs, from well-woman exams to menopause to prolapse. We even offer pelvic reconstructive surgery to treat severe prolapse that’s not responsive to medical interventions.

Prolapse isn’t a common topic of conversation, so we’re using this blog post to share some tips on how to prevent it after pregnancy.

1. Strengthen your pelvic floor

The pelvic floor is a muscle that stretches across the pelvic region like a hammock. Its job is to separate and support the bladder, large intestine, and reproductive organs. The muscles also help you urinate; when you hold it, you’re using your pelvic muscles.

During pregnancy and childbirth, these muscles stretch and weaken, leading to prolapse for some women.

Kegels are a pelvic floor muscle exercise, where you contract and relax the muscles. We recommend doing kegels 10 times and repeating the contraction and relaxation — up to five times a day to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. 

2. Eat more fiber

Any extra pressure on the pelvic floor muscles may cause prolapse. Avoiding constipation can help prevent the organs from falling. Eating more fiber — fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and beans — may help. You also want to drink plenty of water when adding more fiber to prevent constipation.

3. Avoid heavy lifting

Don’t be tempted to lift anything heavy if you suspect weakened pelvic floor muscles. Lifting heavy objects puts extra pressure on the organs, leading to further stretching and weakening of the supportive pelvic floor muscle. 

We can provide guidance on how much weight is acceptable, usually lifting no more than the weight of your baby. 

4. Get to a healthy weight

Achieving a healthy weight may also prevent prolapse after pregnancy by reducing stress on the pelvic muscles. You don’t need to lose weight fast — gradual weight loss leads to long-term results. Eat a balanced diet, emphasizing high-fiber foods, and go for walks when you can.

5. Make time to rest

Rest is hard with a newborn, but your body needs time to heal. Try to sleep when your baby sleeps so you can get the rest you need to recuperate from childbirth and reduce your risk of prolapse. 

If you experience a prolapse, the team at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, can provide the medical support you need to get everything back in place. Call the office near you — in Hastings and Grand Island, Nebraska — or request an appointment online today.