A recent NIH study found that women who gave birth through cesarean section (c-section) were at lower risk of developing pelvic floor conditions than those who gave birth vaginally.
To learn more, researchers followed 1,500 first-time mothers over nine years.
A vaginal delivery can weaken a new mother's pelvic area through stretching and tearing. A c-section happens through the abdomen and causes less strain on the area.
Pelvic floor disorders can lead to leakage of urine associated with laugh, cough, sneeze, or they can weaken support of the vaginal walls and cause bowel movement problems.
According to NIH-funded research, almost one in four women have some type of pelvic floor disorder. Obesity, aging, and chronic medical problems that cause strain on the pelvic floor can also contribute to pelvic floor issues.
