According to my pelvic floor physical therapist, there are four possible causes of my bladder prolapse:
Receiving an epidural
Laboring on my back
Holding my inhalation in my belly while pushing
Genetics
EPIDURALS
A great way to prevent organ prolapse is to avoid an epidural so you can communicate with your muscles and feel them contracting and relaxing to push your baby out. I don’t know details beyond this, but it is enough for me to try as hard as possible to avoid an epidural one with my second babe.
This post isn’t meant to slam people who loved their epidural(s) or who have one in their upcoming birth plan. I had one with Leon and at the time, loved it, buttttt just didn't enjoy it's aftermath of my bladder trying to make a run for it! This post is merely just to educate you on a possible risk that comes along with an epidural - a risk my birthing class, OB or nurse never told me, so maybe you would find it beneficial to hear. I would never disrespect anyone’s birth stories or wishes, medicated or not! Only love here :)
LABOR POSITIONS
I pushed Leon out while laying on my back, which could have contributed to my bladder prolapse. Delivering on your back is the worst position for your pelvic floor. It doesn't allow the hips to open as they should, it puts pressure on the spine/low back, it doesn't allow for gravity to assist you. The only reason why this position is common is because it is convenient for the doctors.
If you choose to get an epidural, deliver your baby on your side and have your partner hold your top leg up. This will allow your body to function a bit better.
If you choose to not have an epidural, then girl, move into any position that brings you ease! Common positions include on all fours (hands or forearms can be elevated, etc.), standing (upper body can be supported) or a supported squat. Let your body be your guide. Explore and figure out what feels best!
BREATHING DURING DELIVERY
While pushing Leon out, my nurse cued me to take a deep breath in, hold the air in my belly, and then push. While this technique is effective at pushing a baby out quickly, it can destroy your pelvic floor and could be one of the reasons why I have 0 working joints/ligaments in mine. Instead, be sure to exhale while pushing. It will feel like you are blowing out your birthday candles.
GENETICS
I had no idea that chances of a bladder prolapse increase if you have a family history, which I do. Caucasians also have a higher chance of prolapsing. In hindsight, these would have been good things to know. I would have researched preventative measures and maybe could have saved my vagina a bit. Or maybe not. Maybe God was going to take me down this path of pelvic floor obsession either way!