When I was pregnant with my first baby, I thought I knew all there was to know about having babies. Shortly after I had a baby, I heard all kinds of horror stories and experienced things I had no idea even existed. So as a community service announcement, I’m going to share with you the things I learned that I wish someone told me.
- Prolapse
It’s even worse that it actually sounds. A prolapse can happen in either your front orifice or your back orifice in your downstairs bits. A prolapse is when your internal bits get pushed out! Yep, through the straining that happens in labour, sometimes you can push so hard that it pops out.
It’s painful, uncomfortable and fortunately very rare. Don’t freak out too much. There are options available to help you deal with a prolapse, but the best thing to do is avoid getting it in the first place.
Hot Tip – Do your pelvic floor exercises. I know everyone bangs on about them, but it is so important to strengthen that part of your body before labour. If nothing else, to prevent a prolapse. Try and stay regular. Constipation can cause a prolapse of your back bits,
- Contractions
I was of the opinion that once you push your baby out the contractions stop. Not so. Once the baby is born, your uterus has to get back to its original size. How does that happen? By contracting of course. If you’re planning on breastfeeding your baby, be prepared for a bunch of pain whenever your precious little cherub has a feed. The hormone released during feeding stimulates the contractions.
Hot Tip – Just knowing about the pain will put in good stead. I had no idea and was unprepared. By the second kid, I was ready for the pain.
- Dryness
Obviously you’re not going to be too keen to get your freak on straight after bub is born. But when you are ready, know this. It might hurt. Especially if you’re breastfeeding. The female body is designed to have a break between babies to ensure the baby is well looked after. The decrease in estrogen and progesterone leads to vaginal dryness. Making sex pretty uncomfortable and maybe even painful.
Hot Tip – Lube up! Your sex life doesn’t have to cease. If you are trying to have another baby you can get sperm friendly lube from the pharmacist.
- Fertility
I struggled with my first born due to my fertility challenges. I had a couple of rounds of IVF before I fell pregnant. So after I had my first baby, contraception was the last thing on my mind as I didn’t think I needed it. Turns out, I was wrong. I was pregnant again after at my first-born’s 1st Birthday party!
Hot Tip – If you are not ready for another baby or you don’t want anymore, have a chat about contraception that suits you and your partner during pregnancy.
I should add, whilst I heard or experienced some of these things, I have absolutely loved the experience of carrying, birthing and raising both of my children. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The pain and discomfort is only temporary. The joy your children bring you is forever.
