Prolapse causing panic attacks

[Onlyinanemergency]

I really need some help. I gave birth to DC3 6 months ago and everything went well with the delivery. I had pelvic and lower back pain during my pregnancy which the consultant said was due to prolapse and was told I'd need physio after the birth. This wasn't a surprise as I'd had a rotational/ high forceps delivery withDC1 and had some obvious signs of prolapse from that. Recently I have returned to exercising and have made the prolapse much worse. My urethra is protruding out of my vagina and I have sciatic pain in my back. The worst symptom however is constantly feeling like I need a bowel movement - I feel sweaty and shaky like I'm trying to hold in a poo long enough to find a toilet except it's being caused by the pressure of my internal organs. I feel like this all the time and it is giving me panic attacks. I'm finding it difficult to care for my children - shouting at them for the smallest things. Physio say I am a long way down the waiting list and there is no chance of being seen soon. Is there anything I can do? I don't know how I can get through another day of feeling like this.

Did your GP see you before lockdown and do an exam? Did they think that physio would realistically help at all? have you been in touch with your GP again to explain the above?

I've not had a physical exam since I gave birth. My GP didn't even examine me at my 6 week post birth appointment- she just asked me some questions about my general health. The prolapse want as bad at that stage anyway. Having a look on line, I'm not sure physio is the answer. I already do loads of pelvic floor exercise anyway. Do you think I should get in touch with GP again?

Yes, I'd ring your GP. They might only initially offer a phone appointment, but hopefully they will then call you in for a physical examination. Or possibly refer straight to gynae. You could ask if a pessary ring might help in the interim. I very much doubt any amount of physio is going to help I'm afraid. Especially as you are also doing pelvic floor exercises anyway. Being overweight puts extra pressure on the pelvic floor, so its a consideration if you that is applicable? Explain exactly what is going on and how it affecting your daily life. Really hope you get seen soon and get some relief. Best of luck

Thanks. No, weight isn't an issue. I've heard from the physio when I spoke to them that people don't really get surgery now. I'm so angry at myself because it was bearable for 6 months and now I've made it all so much worse by exercising.

I’m so sorry, OP, prolapse is such a hard thing to deal with. I had a rectocele & cystocele after DC2 and it took a massive toll on my mood & wellbeing.

Can you find body positions that relieve the feeling of pressure? I used to get on all fours or lean the top half of my body over a table/worktop. Look up correct sitting and stooling postures to reduce the abdominal pressure you can inadvertently cause. Make sure you have horizontal rest periods during the day and go slowly and gently with everything. I realise it’s hard with little kids at home. Does your partner give you much support?

You will heal from this - have faith! 6 months pp is not much time at all, go easy.