J.W. asks from Saint Paul, MN on January 31, 2011
Pelvic Support Issues
I'm looking for some personal experiences and recommendations. After my second son, my entire pelvic muscle group is just destroyed. I've been doing my Kegels, but still risking uterine prolapse at this point. I'm considering adding ben wa balls or Betty's Barbell - I'm really looking for personal experiences with either. I've done a bunch of research, and read all the "you can speed up recovery of the muscles by using a vaginal weight" descriptions from manufacturers and retailers. I really want to hear from people who have used a vaginal weight of some kind. Did it really help? Was it worth the money? I'm less concerned with the sexual benefits - not that I wouldn't welcome better sex, but my priority right now is keeping my uterus from falling out. ;-)
(As far as other symptoms: minor urinary incontinence and bowel regulation issues.)
More Answers
Y.B. answers from Seattle on January 31, 2011
You should fine a physical therapist that specializes in Pelvic floor Issues. They can do lots of things, show you exercises like the bridge pose and also do BioFeedback. After my second one is done cooking, I will be going back to the PT. I started working on this issue then I got pregnant. I did see good results from the little bit I was able to do.
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M.S. answers from Columbus on January 31, 2011
Wow, I've never even heard of these. Duh, I guess. I have had 4 children via vag birth. It took it's toll. I also have uterine prolapse and recently went to a pelvic reconstructions surgeon for a consult.
He didn't exactly advise against surgery, but basically said that since I still have a toddler at home, it wasn't something I probably wanted to do (no lifting for 6 weeks, yikes!!) So, I don't get the feeling he was a surgeon that just wanted to perform surgery first, aske questions later, kind of thing. They placed me with a pessary. I didn't really have much as far as incontinence, but I do have major pressure pain when I do too much lifting, standing and running- that is my biggest issue. The doctor and the PA both asked if I was doing kegels, but said nothing about the possibility of using weights. You would think it would at least be mentioned, if it was something that was proven effective.
I'm interested in the responses you get. * The things we go through for our children......... ;)
C.L. answers from Minneapolis on February 01, 2011
I also recommend physical therapy from a therapist who is familiar with pelvic floor issues. They can give you specific exercises to do at home. It made a world of difference for me. My problems weren't as significant as yours, but I had urinary issues that made me feel like I had a bladder infection when I didn't. PT cleared up my problems, although I've kept doing the exercises over the years.
J.L. answers from Chicago on January 31, 2011
I recommend you going into Physical Therapy. It is a form of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. While I did nto have your issue I had other issues and this made a huge difference. PT will help the incontinence and bowels as well :) Your OB/GYN should be able to recommend a PT in your area.
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