Can I Prevent Pelvic Organ Prolapse During Pregnancy?

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when your pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues weaken and cause one or more pelvic organs — such as your bladder, uterus, or rectum — to drop into or press against the vaginal wall. This can cause urinary incontinence, back pain, spotting, and pelvic pain.

Pregnancy and childbirth can increase the risk of this due to the added strain on the pelvic floor.  About 50% of women who have had children develop prolapse, but only 1 in 10–15,000 women experience it during pregnancy.

The good news is that there are several strategies you can implement during — and after — pregnancy to help reduce your risk of prolapse. 

Below, our team of expert providers explains the risk factors of pelvic organ prolapse, how to reduce your risk, and how our team here at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates in Marietta, Georgia, can help if you spot the signs of prolapse.

Know the risk factors

During pregnancy, hormonal changes and your growing uterus put pressure on your pelvic floor muscles. Vaginal deliveries, especially if you’ve had prolonged labor, forceps, or vacuum assistance, can further weaken your pelvic floor muscles. 

Other risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse include:

• Multiple pregnancies
• A history of pelvic organ prolapse in your family
• Chronic constipation or excessive straining
• Heavy lifting

Keep in mind that just because you have some of these risk factors doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to develop pelvic organ prolapse.

Tips to prevent pelvic organ prolapse during pregnancy

While some risk factors are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to help prevent or minimize pelvic organ prolapse during pregnancy.

Strengthen your pelvic floor with Kegels

Kegel exercises help tone the pelvic floor muscles and provide better support for your bladder, uterus, and rectum. To perform a Kegel:

• Contract your pelvic muscles as if stopping urine flow
• Hold for 5 seconds, then release
• Repeat 10–15 times, multiple times per day

Consistently practicing Kegels throughout pregnancy may reduce your risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse, so go ahead and set a daily reminder on your phone.

Maintain a healthy weight

Excess weight can put additional pressure on your pelvic floor and increase the risk of prolapse. Eating a balanced diet and engaging in safe, pregnancy-friendly exercises — such as walking or prenatal yoga — can help you maintain a healthy weight.

Note: don’t let the fear of weight gain as a risk factor for prolapse keep you from gaining weight during pregnancy. It’s important to gain weight during pregnancy, but how much you should gain during pregnancy depends on whether you’re carrying one baby or multiples, your pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), and if you have any underlying conditions. Your Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates provider can help you determine a healthy weight goal for you during your pregnancy.

Avoid heavy lifting

Lifting heavy objects can place undue stress on your pelvic floor. If you must lift something, use your core and legs rather than your back and abdomen. Avoid activities that involve repetitive straining, such as excessive bending or standing for long periods.

Prevent constipation

Straining due to constipation weakens your pelvic floor over time — that’s true whether you’re pregnant or not. Stay hydrated, eat fiber-rich foods, and engage in gentle movement to keep your digestion regular. 

If you notice that you’re feeling constipated, drink more water, eat some fiber-rich fruit like prunes or pears, and go for a gentle walk. If needed, our team can recommend pregnancy-safe stool softeners.

Practice good posture

Proper posture helps reduce pelvic pressure. Sit and stand with your shoulders, back, and pelvis in a neutral position. Avoid slouching, and use supportive pillows when sitting for long periods. 

When to seek medical care for pelvic organ prolapse

Even with the best prevention strategies in place, it’s possible to still experience prolapse. That’s because some risk factors are unavoidable. If you experience symptoms such as a heavy or bulging sensation in the vagina, urinary leakage, or difficulty emptying your bladder or bowels, talk to us.

While mild prolapse may improve after childbirth, severe cases may require physical therapy, pessaries, or medical intervention.

Your Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates provider can determine the severity of your prolapse and recommend your next steps. 

To learn more, give us a call at 770-422-8505 or book your next appointment online.