Postpartum genitourinary changes

Urol Clin North Am. 2007 Feb;34(1):13-21. doi: 10.1016/j.ucl.2006.10.005.

Abstract

Genitourinary changes following childbirth and pregnancy are common, and include urinary and anal incontinence, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic organ prolapse. At present, it is unclear whether or not these changes are a result of the pregnancy itself or the mode of delivery (cesarean section or vaginal birth). In this article, the authors aim to describe genitourinary postpartum pelvic floor changes, and review the literature regarding the impact of pregnancy or childbirth on these changes. Data is needed that compare the effects of pregnancy alone, cesarean delivery (labored and unlabored), and vaginal birth, so that physicians can better advise patients about the postpartum genitourinary tract changes they might expect.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Fecal Incontinence / etiology
  • Female
  • Female Urogenital Diseases / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Obstetric Labor Complications
  • Pelvic Floor / injuries
  • Pregnancy
  • Puerperal Disorders / etiology*
  • Urinary Incontinence / etiology
  • Urinary Retention / etiology