Postpartum Rectal Weakness: Causes & Solutions

Question
Hello,

I gave birth to my first child 4 weeks ago and since that time I have had an issue with passing stools.

I can feel my anus opening but depend largely on gravity and shifting my whole body to try and pass the stools out. I don't seem to have any pushing power.

I can only pass a small amount and afterwards I feel as if my anus is stuck open for a few moments but when I wipe it seems to be closed.

I am not constipated nor do I suffer from piles.

My urine control seems to be fine.

Does my issue sound like something that could be fixed with pelvic floor exercises or any other specific exercises or is it something that I need to see a doctor about?

How long might it take to resolve?

Thanks

Answer
Louise,
This is a fairly common postpartum problem. During some births, the anal sphincters can become over-stretched and thinned, which reduces normal functioning. Pelvic floor contractions will correct the problem.
Eating lots of foods that have water soluble fiber, to soften and bulk up your stools will help a lot in the mean time, as you do rehab exercises. Try not to push, as this can further strain these tissues.
Go to page http://befitmom.com/pelvic.html to find out how to effectively do pelvic floor contractions. Plan on doing 8 sets of 10 repetitions, daily. This should get a lot better in about 3 weeks, but plan on continuing pelvic floor contractions for about 12 weeks total.
BeFit-Mom
http://befitmom.com