Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is when one or more pelvic organs drop from their position and put pressure on the vaginal walls. This makes a bulge in the vagina, called a prolapse. The muscles and connective tissues of the pelvic floor typically hold the pelvic organs in place. When these are weakened, pelvic organ prolapse can be the result. Pelvic organs include the vagina, bladder, uterus, urethra, and rectum.

Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

• A feeling of heaviness around your lower tummy and genitals.
• A dragging discomfort inside your vagina.
• Feeling like there's something coming down into your vagina – it may feel like sitting on a small ball.
• Feeling or seeing a bulge or lump in or coming out of your vagina.

Why Pelvic Organ Prolapse Happens

Imagine your pelvic floor as a hammock holding everything in place; when the hammock loses its strength, things start to sag.

Why does this happen? Several factors can contribute:

• Childbirth: Vaginal deliveries, especially multiple or difficult ones, can strain the pelvic floor.
• Aging and Menopause: Decreased estrogen levels can affect tissue strength.
• Heavy Lifting: Frequent heavy lifting increases pressure on the pelvic floor.
• Chronic Coughing or Constipation: Both conditions put extra strain on pelvic muscles.

Pelvic organ prolapse is more common than many realize (one in four women over the ag of 18 suffer from it), and it's nothing to be embarrassed about. In fact, women throughout history have dealt with prolapse. Ancient Egyptian papyri even mention treatments for it!

Treating Pelvic Organ Prolapse

There are a few common options used to address pelvic organ prolaspe.

• Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels): Strengthening those muscles can make a significant difference.
• Lifestyle Changes: Managing weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating chronic coughs or constipation.
• Medical Interventions: Pessaries (support devices inserted into the vagina) or surgery in more severe cases.