Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is an uncomfortable condition that affects many women. This can occur due to weakened pelvic floor muscles or other soft tissues that are responsible to hold our pelvic organs- the uterus, vagina, bladder, and rectum- in place which can happen as a result of pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or certain medical conditions. When these muscles become weak, the pelvic organs may drop down lower in the vaginal canal, in case of uterine prolapse, or protrude into the vaginal canal in case of Cystocele (bladder) or Rectocele (rectum).

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse can vary depending on the severity of the condition and which organs are affected. Some common symptoms include:

• A sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area

• A feeling of something coming out of the vagina

• Pain during intercourse

• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic region

• Difficulty with bowel movements or urinary incontinence

What Are the Causes of POP?

There are several factors that can contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and the development of pelvic organ prolapse. Some of these factors include:

• Pregnancy and Childbirth: The pressure of a growing fetus and the stress of delivery can weaken the pelvic floor muscles.

• Aging: As we age, our bodies undergo changes that can affect the strength and elasticity of the pelvic floor muscles.

• Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.

• Obesity: Excess weight can put additional pressure on the pelvic floor muscles.

• Persistent Straining: The repeated stress of straining due to issues with bowel movements can weaken the pelvic floor muscles.

How Can I Prevent POP?

While pelvic organ prolapse cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, training your pelvic floor muscles, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating constipation/persistent straining are all ways to help keep the pelvic floor muscles strong and healthy.

What Are the Steps for Diagnosis and Treatment?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help alleviate the symptoms of prolapse by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. This involves exercises that target the function of the muscles of the pelvic floor with a global whole-person approach to help you return to normal activities that you had to stop because of symptoms. 

In addition to strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, pelvic floor physiotherapy can also help to improve bladder and bowel function, reduce pain, and improve sexual function. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can also be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as surgery or pessary use, to improve function and reduce symptoms.

If you are experiencing symptoms of prolapse, such as pelvic pressure or bulging, difficulty with urination or bowel movements, or discomfort during sex, it is important to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist who can work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.