Good for you doing all the research you can on what is happening with your body!! While I don't know about the weight lifting issue, I wanted to reply to you and let you know I'm thinking positive thoughts for you!!

Hi Niikkii, I am also 36 years old and was just told last year that I had a uterus prolapse by my family practitioner. I gave birth to my last child 14 years ago and have been faithfully doing my yearly PAP for at least the last 5 years. I also lift weights and joined the fire department 3 years ago. To me, it was "all of a sudden" that I got the prolapse as it was never noticed before. I suspect that I probably prolapsed when I decided to do squats with weights for a few months. The OB says no, but I tell you, I was NEVER diagnosed with a prolapse before.
I actually had urethrocele and cystocele at the 2nd degree according to the doc. What I felt was a huge tube anteriorly and actually thought it was my cervix. I went back into the OB and asked him to paint a picture as to what I was feeling. He told me and I requested surgery to "fix me"! I still do not have a significant other, so I was worried about future "encounters" and absolutely did not want a pessary, and not to leave out the fact that I felt like a FREAK. I wanted to be FIXED.
Well, I'm 6 days post op, the pain was very minimal as well as the bleeding. I think the biggest pain was the not being able to pee in recovery and the catheter.
I'm going to take it extremely easy for the next 2 weeks. I too, wonder if I'm doomed for the rest of my life by not being able to lift. I did not ask the OB yet, but will do so at my 3 week follow up.
If he says the 20 lb rule is true, I'll settle for lifting light and going on the eliptical to build legs. I was doing the upward leg press and romanian deadlifts and I will ask him if that will actually put strain on my uterus area.
But, that also means the fire department might be out, as I'm sure they don't want a "light duty" firefighter/EMT.
Let me know if you find out anymore info on fitness/weightlifting, and I will do the same. Take care and good luck!

Also, to prepare for surgery, I suggest taking vitamin supplements. I also take damiana leaves as they claim it brings oxygen to your groin area which is beneficial for faster healing. Stop taking vitamin E or any anticoagulant medication/pills (ginko, ginger, ginseng, etc.) about a couple weeks before surgery, IF THE DOCTOR SAYS.
After surgery, start with the vitamin E maybe 3 days after surgery. I read that B5, magnesium, zinc, copper and vitamin c are necessary for a speedy recovery for surgery and am going out to purchase what I don't have today.
Of course all this is only what I've read and are my opinion. I've googled high and low for advice from women who've had this surgery for recovery and exercise and haven't run across anything. Except your question! Again, good luck.

Hi Leneley,
I'm glad to hear your surgery went well, as I too, am contemplating surgery for my prolapse condition, and have been unable to find any really valuable after much googling. How did your follow up appointment go with the doctor? Did he answer your question about lifting? What about running? Do you know if that's an activity that can be resumed at some point after the surgery? I guess it's been about 6-7 weeks since your surgery now. Have you resumed any physical activity? How's that going?
Thanks for your posting. It's so good to finally see someone ask about fitness after prolapse/hysterectomy surgery!!
I hope your recovery continues to go well. Take care.

Pate,

Today is actually my 6 week follow up appt with the doc.
At my 3 week, I asked him if the not being able to lift over 20 lbs ever after surgery was true, he said no. He is a highly reputable OB/GYN in my town, so I am trusting him.
However, for my sake, I will not lift as much as I used to because of possible recurrence. He did advice not to even go on the eliptical before 6 weeks, so I think running may be out until the doctor gives you the thumbs up. I've picked up yoga this past week and may just incorporate that into my work out routine with light weight lifting. I'm also thinking of gearing more towards body weight work outs such as dips and pull ups. Basically, trying to keep away from anything that may put a strain in the pelvic area, but still staying in shape. All in all, I feel great!
I think a big key to a successful recovery would depend on the doctor who does the surgery. Find out the reputation of the doctor and make your decision.
If I ever do have a recurrence, I will opt for another surgery without a doubt.
I wish you the best on your decision and hope to hear from you about your progress as well as advice given to you by the doctor. Best of luck to you!

I am 35 years old and have 2 children. Both deliveries were difficult and caused vaginal and rectal prolapse. I've been to see a number of surgeons and all are suggesting a hysterectomy too since I have severe endometriosis. I've been told that this will be life altering and I won't be able to lift more than 20 lbs. I'm devasted. I'm used to going to body pump class 3x a week and doing squats with 55 lbs. Does anyone know of someone who has been through a hysterectomy, bladder sling and pelvic floor hernia repair and still able to return (albeit after normal healing time) to normal workout routines?

Hello

Try adding vitamin c (3000mg), Glucosamine (1500mg) and Omega 3 (3000mg) per day to your diet. All of these supplements will strengthen cartilage, make new collagen and help as anti-inflammatories. Give yourself at least 3 months on an anti-inflammation diet and you will most probably find you won't need or find it necessary to have surgery.

Take care.

Let 20 pounds be the limit...I also had severe endometriousis...This was eliminated with the Hysterectomy....Don't mess with your vaginal and rectal prolapse problems...They will only get worse...Do what the doctor tells you...Good luck...

Caroline