On the Blog: Forceps, Tearing & Trauma: What I Wish I Knew About My Pelvic Floor Before Birth

You don’t know what you don’t know—until you're trying to heal from birth trauma that could’ve been prevented. Instrumental births like forceps and vacuum can be necessary, but they also carry risks that many women aren’t told about.

The Realities of Forceps Deliveries
Forceps increase the chance of severe perineal tears (3rd or 4th degree), pelvic organ prolapse, and incontinence. These injuries can take months—or even years—to recover from. Many women struggle with pain, discomfort, and emotional trauma long after birth. Forceps are also banned in some countries, due to the significant impact on the pelvic floor and other complications. 

A Personal Reflection
I've seen many women who had no idea of the risk of a forceps on their pelvic floor, and weren't told to prioritise pelvic floor recovery, meaning they ended up with prolapse that requires lifelong management. 

I recently worked with a client who did a pre-natal assessment with me, but ended up needing a forceps delivery for pre-term labour. This client was well aware of the risk of prolapse and worked on her pelvic floor significantly.

Despite still developing some prolapse symptoms, we fitted her with a pessary and she is now back to netball at 6 months postpartum, assured that exercise won't make her symptoms or recovery worse. 

Knowledge is Power
Knowing these risks doesn’t mean fearing birth—it means preparing your body, mind, and pelvic floor so you can face whatever birth brings with strength and confidence. Postpartum recovery after pelvic floor issues is so much easier if you've prepared, I can assure you that from the 100s of women I've worked with.

Prepare Today!
Start preparing now with Pelvic Floor Prep for Birth, your complete guide to pelvic floor health, perineal massage, birth positions, and pushing techniques that reduce risk.