The group of muscles that keep your pelvic organs such as your bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowel and rectum in place is called the pelvic floor. In some cases, these muscles and tissues develop problems, known as pelvic floor disorders. Some women may develop these issues after childbirth or due to aging. A pelvic organ prolapse refers to the drooping of any of the pelvic floor organs into the outside of the vaginal canal or anus.

Typical examples of a pelvic organ prolapse include:

  • Cystocele: A prolapse of the bladder into the vagina.
  • Urethrocele: A prolapse of the urethra.
  • Uterine Prolapse
  • Enterocele: small bowel prolapse.
  • Vaginal Vault Prolapse: prolapse of the vagina.
  • Rectocele: rectum prolapse.

PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE CAUSES

Activities or events that put a lot of pressure on the abdomen can lead to pelvic organ prolapse. Common causes may include pregnancy, labor, childbirth, constipation, obesity, pelvic organ cancers, or hysterectomy. Genetics may also play some role in this condition, as some women may have weaker connective tissues. While some women with a pelvic organ prolapse may not have any symptoms, those who do may experience:

  • Pressure or fullness in the pelvic region.
  • Painful intercourse.
  • A lower backache.
  • Constipation
  • Spotty vaginal bleeding.
  • A feeling that something is falling out of the vagina.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT FOR PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE

If you are experiencing symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, I encourage you to schedule a consultation with me so we can determine the cause of your symptoms and discuss the best treatment options. During your visit, I will take a detailed medical history and perform a comprehensive pelvic examination to assess the position and support of your pelvic organs. If I suspect a prolapse, I may recommend additional tests, such as bladder function studies, pelvic ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or other imaging tests to better understand the severity of the condition and identify any associated problems.

Your treatment plan will be tailored to the type and severity of your prolapse, as well as your symptoms, lifestyle, and personal goals. If your prolapse is mild, I may recommend conservative treatments, including pelvic floor physical therapy and Kegel exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your pelvic organs and improve your symptoms. I may also recommend a vaginal pessary, a soft medical device that is placed inside the vagina to provide support for the prolapsed organs and relieve discomfort without surgery.

If your prolapse is causing significant pain, discomfort, urinary or bowel problems, or is affecting your quality of life, I may recommend surgical repair. Depending on your condition and future reproductive plans, the surgery may involve repairing the weakened pelvic support structures or, in selected cases, removing the affected organ when medically appropriate.