PFD and pregnant

[jamieszabo]

I was dx about 3 years ago with IC and PFD. I have tried many treatments for both such as Elmiron, Bladder instillations, physical therepy, hydrodistention surgery, diet change. I did all of this in the first year and half. And just well stopped because I could not afford any of it no longer. I do have to say after all of this I did start feeling better with a lot less pain and flare ups. If I really really stuck to my IC diet.

Well here I am 3 years later I am I am pregnant. I really have not had any issues throughout the pregnancy. I am 9 months now with 3 weeks to go!

What I am concerned about is the actual giving birth process. I am so concerened about my PFD and my muscles not doing what they are supposed to. They tense up under pressuer or pain and I could only imagine what kind of pain will be going on during labor.

I have talked to my OB about this and she says there should be no problem. But are they really sure until the time comes. I just do not want to be pushing for hours and then come to find out I need a c section. Which I am totally fine with. I just kind of would not like to experience both in one day.

[crazy_beautiful]

I would think that your doctors are right. you can opt for an upperdural.

[Charisse]

Jamie I've never been diagnosed with PFD but I have your same fears. I cannot bend over at the waist or do any kind of ab work or leg work without flaring. I just can't imagine what giving birth is going to do. The alternative of a c-section and the idea of cutting anywhere near my bladder is not appealing either. I briefly mentioned these fears to my dr but he didn't have much to say to me about it since I am his first pregnant IC patient. His response was "well we just won't know until were there". I plan to bring it up to him again as my delivery date gets closer. I'm not due until October so I think he'll be more receptive to the conversation when I'm a little further along.

[ABliske]

First of all Congratulations! I hope that you have a quick and easy labor. I am pregnant also, but have not been diagnosed with PFD. I thought I had it at one point because everything felt so tight and hard. My physical therapist said I was likely to develop it, but I feel like I am doing okay in that area. My IC is really severe though.
I wish you the best of luck. I think every laboring mother has to tense up their muscles to a point. It seems like a natural part of the pushing. I've never been through it myself. Hopefully, the PDF does not work against you too much!!!

[Krisi]

I hope all goes well with the birthing process! I know your fears but I haven't experienced them yet for myself. I have IC, PFD, and vulvodynia. My PT has said that a lot of PTs will work with you while you are pregnant as long as it is ok with your doctor. Maybe you could try to go to PT and work on loosening the muscles. I am currently going to PT now, but also intend to do so whenever I become pregnant. I have also heard that vaginal birth might help to loosen the PFD at least for us who are overly tight. I wish the best for you. Maybe you can talk to your OB again and tell her why you are still concerned.

[Charisse]

I'm not sure I have PFD because my muscles don't feel tight during sex. I have pain but only on my left side of my urethra while having sex which is where it is most of the time. When I flare bad then the whole pelvic region feels inflammed but not necessarily tight.