Pelvic Organ Disorders
 
Researchers have found a strong link between muscle damage that can occur during childbirth and pelvic organ prolapse.  The condition can be devastating, impacting a woman's confidence, even causing depression. In fact, many women are lobbying with their doctor, requesting c-sections to avoid pelvic floor damage...it's a hot debate that's been stirring in the medical community.  
     After bringing two beautiful sons into the world, Heidi Hansberry knew she wanted more children. But during her second pregnancy, she suffered significant pelvic organ damage.  According to new research from the University of Michigan health system, there is a strong link between muscle damage that can occur during vaginal deliveries and pelvic organ prolapse - a condition that can cause the uterus, bladder or bowel to significantly drop later in a woman's life.
     After her second son was born, Heidi had corrective surgery. She was feeling great and was symptom free.  She got a big surprise when she discovered she was pregnant again. To avoid any complications, Heidi's third son, Sean, was delivered by C-section. In fact, the recent increase among women electing caesarean sections has been due in large part to the fear of eventually developing pelvic prolapse.
     One of the best ways to help prevent pelvic prolapse is to strengthen and tone your pelvic muscles.  Kegel exercises are often used to strengthen the muscles surrounding the openings of the urethra, vagina and rectum.
     Another way to help women who have mild prolapse is to space out pregnancies. According to the obstetrician we talked to, if you had a big injury to your pelvic muscles during a deliverym then you'd probably not experience a full return to muscle strength for a year. And, you'll want to get those muscles as strong as you can before having another baby.