Question for prolapse sisters

I'm terrified of overdoing and destroying the repairs that have been done. I'm feeling fine, don't have much pain, and am really taking it easy. I haven't lifted a thing heavier than 5 pounds in 2 weeks. My doctor has okayed me to lift my baby now (14 pounds), but I'm really nervous about it. I guess it's nice to know I can if I have to, but I'm thinking I may give it another week. I guess I should get to my question, sorry. How do you know the prolapse issues are fixed? I'm feeling a bit more pressure now that I'm sitting up more, is that normal. My post op appointment isn't until Sept 26th so I have a long way to go before the doctor can tell me if my problems are fixed or not (he's 2 hours away, so no I can't go earlier just to make myself feel better). Sorry for rambling, I just really want everything to be "normal" and I'm nervous about it.

The best you can do is to follow your surgeon's instructions. And, as you propose, may even continue your weight restriction beyond the allowance. Even though it's not practical to visit your surgeon prior to the 26th, there's no reason you cannot call and ask questions.....to which the answers may help give you some peace of mind.

I've not had the same repairs, so hope someone that has, shall come along soon and share.

Take care, Princess...................s....Deb

Hello...as you really do seem to be following your surgeon's instructions, I am sure you will be fine. I would think very carefully however just how you lift your baby when you do so, so that you put minimal strain on the newly repaired area. I would also wait for as long as you could and ease myself in gradually. I was advised to do the kegel exercises when doing any lifting, to help protect the pelvic floor.
There is a lot of swelling, inflammation and bruising around for about 6 weeks after a prolapse repair, depending of course on what you had repaired and how much. This swelling does make you feel as if the original problem has returned though - which it normally hasn't. I found this sensation to be worst at 2-3 weeks and when any stitches were passing. Thankfully, it passed.
You seem to me as if you are doing everything right to make this operation a success, but do not be afraid to ask your doctor for reassurance if you are worried. Take care... Barbara

PS If it helps to know, my lifting restrictions were nothing heavier than a full kettle of water for 6 weeks.

I had repairs done also and I was really cautious about what I picked up. I think it is standard not to pick up anything over 5 pounds for most of us during the 6 week recovery period, during my 6 week check up my doctor did tell me nothing over 15 pounds from now on. That is her direction for me, personally. I am sure that it varies by doctor and patient. Apparently I was quite the mess so that is probably why my limitations are strict. I do not want a repeat surgery but I have cheated by picking up my 2 grandchildren on occasion, who are about 30 pounds each. Just be very careful when you first start, you will feel it if it is too heavy.
Take care.............

Yes the swelling makes it feel like the prolapse has come again... just continue to follow Dr orders to the letter. I wasn't suppose to lift anything over 5lbs for 4 weeks(I cheated - did a gal of milk a couple times) & nothing over 30 till now abouts(till my 3 month mark) but I have been lifting my baby(tho witkk be 2 this month) since the 4th of July & she's right around 35lbs. oops:-P I hadn't realized she was that heavy. For me personally once the swelling all went down *things* just feel a ton 'lighter' down there if that makes any sense but that's the best I can do to describe.

Thanks everyone for sharing. I did try to carry the baby today, but quickly realized that was a bit too much for now. I'm going to continue with our babysitters for another week (until the 4 week mark) just to be sure. I'm so glad I have this site to come to when I have so many questions. I've called the doctors office so many times this week I'm sure his receptionist hates to see my number come up.

Ellie, I think you made the right decision. The longer you can hold off lifting anything until 6 weeks post-op the better your results will be. I agree with Barbara and the others, from past experience, you are still early in your recovery and swelling is normal. The swelling does make you feel as if the repairs are failing. Putting a bag of frozen veggies on the area helps a lot. Try to take it easy and rest when you can.
Michelle