Maternity and Childbirth Services

Sometimes after pregnancy and childbirth, some women experience bladder control issues (from leaking small amounts of urine while laughing, coughing, sneezing, or with physical activity like running or jumping, to a complete loss of control). Others may experience pelvic pain during intercourse or at other times.

During pregnancy, and especially a vaginal birth, the pelvic floor muscles get stretched out. This group of muscles and ligaments connects to the vagina and serves as a hammock to hold pelvic organs like the uterus, bladder and rectum in place. After pregnancy and childbirth, they take about six weeks to contract back to their normal, pre-pregnancy condition. Your muscles may just need time to recover and the problems may go away on their own.

But if you still have a problem with urine leakage (even if it's minor and you think you can "just live with it") or pelvic pain, talk to your doctor. You are not alone. Although it's not often talked about, an estimated 10 to 30 percent of women aged 15 to 64 are affected by some sort of pelvic health problem. One in three new moms experience chronic, uncontrolled loss of bladder control at some point. Without treatment, even seemingly minor bladder control and pelvic floor muscle issues can become long-term problems. Early treatment such as exercise and physical therapy often can help. Doing your kegels may not be enough and most women don't actually know how to do them properly.

Life with a new baby can be busy and your baby's health may be your priority, but it is just as important to take care of your own health. St. Luke's offers a wide range of evaluation and treatment options for pelvic floor muscle issues, bladder control concerns, pelvic pain and other pelvic health conditions - from specialized core fitness programs and physical therapy to non-surgical and surgical options.

Learn more about Pelvic Health evaluation, treatment and resources