Why is this happening to my body?
The vagina stretches during the delivery, but after childbirth may not return to its pre-pregnant size. Moreover, pelvic muscle relaxation occurs due to stretching and trauma during the delivery. There may be pelvic floor injury due to compression or damage to the nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This is impactful as an optimal pelvic floor supports your pelvic organs, controls your bladder continence, and is involved in sexual satisfaction.
If you are experiencing a pelvic organ prolapse, you may have noticed that part of the vaginal wall or uterus has descended lower than normal into the pelvic cavity. This is largely due to weakened or injured pelvic floor muscles from delivery. The risk of pelvic organ prolapse increases with the number of deliveries you have. This may lead to discomfort, incontinence, painful intercourse and a decrease in self-esteem.In severe cases, this may lead to surgery, but we have other treatment options to help!
Just like the vagina and pelvic floor muscles are stretched and manipulated in pregnancy and delivery, as is the abdominal wall. The abdomen stretches as baby grows and a condition known as diastasis recti can sometimes occur. This is essentially separation of the abdominal muscles which can be quite uncomfortable. Exercises and physical therapy can assist with this, and occasionally surgery may be necessary.