Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition that affects one in four U.S. women in their 40s, and one in three women in their 60s. As with other common gynecologic concerns, women may be too embarrassed or ashamed to discuss it and seek treatment or believe it to be a normal part of the aging process. Ignoring the symptoms may lead to worsening of the condition over time. There are a number of effective treatment options, which vary by the severity of your condition and how it affects your quality of life.
What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
The pelvic organs include the vagina, uterus, cervix, rectum, bladder and small intestine. Pelvic organ prolapse is a type of pelvic floor disorder that occurs when one or more pelvic organs drop from their original position or press into or out of the vagina. The resulting bulge is called a prolapse.
Pelvic organ prolapse is caused when the pelvic floor – the muscles, ligaments and connective tissues that hold the pelvic organs in place – become weak or damaged, rendering them unable to support the pelvic organs. Once one pelvic organ has prolapsed, it is more likely that another type of prolapse will occur.
Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
The types of pelvic organ prolapse are differentiated by the organ that is affected. They include:
- Cystocele, which is also called dropped bladder, is the most common. With this type, the bladder drops into or out of the vagina.
- Rectocele happens when the rectum bulges into or out of the vagina.
- Uterine prolapse, or dropped uterus, occurs when the uterus bulges into or out of the vagina. It is sometimes associated with enterocele, a small bowel prolapse, where part of the small intestine bulges into the vagina.
Common Symptoms and Signs of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
In some instances, pelvic organ prolapse can occur without causing any symptoms. When they are noticeable, symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse may include:
- Lower back pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pelvic pressure, pain or heaviness
- Being unable to keep a tampon in the vagina
- A bulge of tissue that can be seen or felt beyond the opening of the vagina
- Changes in urinary habits, such as more frequent urination, a weak urine stream, inability to completely empty the bladder, or feeling an urgent need to urinate
- Changes in bowel habits, such as the inability to completely empty stool or needing to support the bulge by inserting fingers in the vagina to be able to pass stool (splinting).
Causes and Risk Factors of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Weakening of the pelvic floor causes pelvic organ prolapse. The risk factors, or conditions that are likely to result in weakened muscles, include:
- Obesity
- Age (being older than age 60)
- Family history
- Prior pelvic surgery
- Vaginal delivery of one or more baby, especially high birth-weight babies
- Hormonal changes caused by menopause
- Straining or long-term abdominal pressure caused by chronic cough, ongoing constipation, or repeated heavy lifting
How Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse Diagnosed?
An OBGYN who specializes in pelvic floor disorders or urogynecologist can diagnose pelvic organ prolapse. That doctor will likely perform a pelvic exam after discussing symptoms with you, and may ask you to cough or strain to assess if those actions cause prolapse or urine leakage. A series of other tests, called urodynamics, may also be used to diagnose pelvic organ prolapse.
Advantia Health Treatment Options for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse may include:
- Pelvic floor muscle therapy, which is a non-surgical method of retraining the pelvic floor muscles through exercise. This physical therapy regimen can also help with urinary incontinence.
- A pessary, which is a removable device that is inserted into the vagina to provide support to the pelvic organs. This non-surgical option may also be among the first options your doctor may recommend.
- Dietary changes are often beneficial if you are experiencing bowel issues. Increasing your fiber intake can prevent constipation, reducing the straining that may have caused or worsened a prolapse.
- Surgery to close the vagina can be a good option for those who are no longer engaging in vaginal sex. Other surgical options are available for those who are still sexually active and are intended to repair the vaginal wall, replace the pelvic organs, or provide other means of support to the pelvic floor.
The recommended treatments will vary depending on the type of prolapse you’ve experienced, the severity of symptoms, your age, other health concerns, and sexual activity.
Advantia Health Expertise
Advantia Health provider areas of expertise include pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic floor disorders, and treatments for those conditions such as medical devices, robotic, vaginal, and laparoscopic procedures, pelvic floor muscle training, and urethral bulking. Each provides high-quality care and personalized treatment options that help you achieve your lifestyle goals.
Book An Appointment!
To discuss your symptoms, diagnostic recommendations, and treatment options, schedule your appointment with an Advantia provider through the online link or by calling our office today.
