irrational (?) fear of prolapse. First baby, 3 weeks to go, pnaic setting in. Advice and support needed.

[mumblesmummy]

I'm so positive about the birth, can't wait despite everyone telling me horror stories and such like. It's something I'd love to do and I'm really excited.

HOWEVER, the past few weeks I've started panicking about prolapse. Don't ask me why. I do have piles and IBS and a damaged urinary tract (because I've had millions of water infections) and everything down there hurts, my tummy, my SPD, my arse, some shooting pain down my fanjo, I'm just generally in pain.

What actually makes someone prolapse? How common is it? Will it get me? Is it repairable? Am I being irrational? I hope so.

I've piled on weight, I've got the worst stretch marks I've ever seen, and pregnancy has NOT been kind to me... so I think that's why I'm starting to panic that my body is just going to give in all together.

My mil had a prolapse 47 years ago when she had my sil. I always assumed it was more common with subsequent, not first babies. Not sure what treatment if any, but Mil is still alive and fairly continent at 82, leading a normal life. So prolapse is not the worst that can happen.

I would say try to keep to a high fibre diet with plenty of fluids, so you don't get a huge faecal build up in the bowel. Go to the toilet after every meal, and eat little and often.

Sorry to hear about your SPD. There is a support group called Pelvic Partnership. Are you member? If not I suggest you google them.

Extrememly unlikely after just one baby, there are lots of different types. Most of them are repairable but most will just improve with time and pelvic floor exercises. It is normal to get abdominal, pelvic pain at this stage etc, just think of the amount of extra weight & fluid you are carrying around. Keep being positive about the birth