C section mums 5 years plus since last baby…how are you doing?

[mummyneedsrest]

Hi, i know this section is for post partum/post natal but i was unsure where to post.
it has been 7 years in October since i had my 3rd and final C Section. I am wondering if the issues im currently having are something other mums 5 years plus since c section have struggled with too. Im the only person in my family who hasnt given birth vaginally so if i talk to my mum or aunts (i dont have a sister) about my issues im told basically that at least i dont have the issues they have post vaginal birth, something a long the lines of “well at least giving birth didnt injure you down there, i bet you can run and jump” in a sort of jokey way but to be honest it just makes me feel isolated and as though i should ignore my issues and they will go away eventually.

ive had 3 small babies (all under 7lbs) by section due to preeclampsia and i had no labour. After my first two babies i seemed fine, but after my third the issues started. Sex is painful, im tiny but have this protuding ‘bloat’ or bump really and although im slim i look about 6 months pregnant. For my job im on my feet all day as well as lifting boxes, and (sorry, tmi) i leak a bit of wee when i lift a box and i have to run to the toilet intermittently throughout the day. Is this ‘normal’? Anyone experience the same long term post c section, and what helped/was anything recommended to you?

thankyou x

I’m only 3.5 years post last section and those aren’t problems I’ve had. But what sprung to mind in case it’s helpful: Diastatis recti where you stomach muscles split during pregnancy and don’t come back together could be causing the bump and a prolapse could be the cause of the continence issues and painful sex. Mode of delivery isn’t massively relevant I don’t think as it’s more just the weight carrying a full term pregnancy and a bit of bad luck. I’d make an appointment to see the GP if I were you.

What are you doing exercise wise? Are you in good physical shape otherwise? Did you/do you do the kegal type exercises to strengthen pelvic floor?

The flip side of kegals though is that if you already have a strong pelvic floor they work against you. By contracting muscles that may already be under strain/tired they won't be able to respond. I'd recommend going to a women health physio. They will provide a full assessment and give you the right tools for the PF you have. No matter how many years after birth, you are still post partum. You deserve to feel good in your body OP.