The Pelvic Floor after Childbirth

STUDY BASICS

Are you a first-time mom? You may be eligible for a research study about the pelvic floor. To see if there is any injury to the birth canal, this study is asking first-time moms to have an exam, pelvic ultrasound, and MRI at 12 weeks and an ultrasound 1 year after delivery. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

During vaginal delivery, the muscles of the birth canal (pelvic floor) are stretched and can be injured. Most women heal, but a few have problems with leaking urine, bladder dropping, and weak muscles later in life.  Researchers at Magee-Womens Hospital are studying the muscles of the birth canal after delivery to understand how and why injuries happen. They hope to help prevent injuries and problems for women in the future.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• 18 years of age or older
• first-time mom 
• vaginal or cesarean section delivery

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Participants will have an exam, pelvic ultrasound, and MRI at 12 weeks and an ultrasound 1 year after delivery