Many discover their POP before feeling that their family unit is complete but are nervous about the impact another pregnancy/birth will have on their pelvic floor. First, we want to gently remind anyone grappling with this decision that your feelings are valid & important. So often, women considering a subsequent pregnancy are given reductive messages like “don’t worry, it will all be worth it!” and “don’t let your concerns about your body hold you back!” While these messages can seem positive, they fail to acknowledge the real trauma and impairment to function that many with POP face. It is incredibly reasonable to question whether you are up for another pregnancy and birth, given your experience. Any decision you come to, for whatever reason, is okay. CONSIDERATIONS FOR POST-POP PREGNANCY: 👉From the available research, it appears that, in general, most of the damage to the PF (potentially leading to POP) occurs during the 1st vaginal birth. 👉Many with POP go on to have subsequent vaginal births without noticing increased symptoms/severity of grade. 👉Many that do initially notice a worsening find that this resolves in the postpartum period, returning them to their previous baseline. 👉A cesarean birth can be an excellent option (particularly those at greater risk of PF trauma & those managing psychological birth trauma-related symptoms) but it is not entirely protective, nor is it a preference for everyone. Your body, your decisions. 👉Pregnancy itself brings considerable load on the pelvic floor (and accompanying hormonal changes) that might tax an already taxed system. It is unclear how lasting the effects of this are, but it’s important to note that pregnancy is, of course, temporary! 👉You can take actionable steps to potentially reduce further compromising the PF: consider PFPT, discuss your birth preferences (seeking to avoid the use of forceps, “pushing” preferences, etc.), consider a pessary during pregnancy, treat constipation & respiratory concerns, adjust exercise/lifestyle intensities, & more. 👉There are many unknowns in pregnancy/birth. Focus on what you *can* control.
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