PROLAPSE

PROLAPSE TREATMENT

Pelvic organ prolapse is defined as the descent of one or more of the pelvic organs from their original position into the vaginal canal.

This can include:

Cystocele: Descent of the bladder into the front side of the vagina

Rectocele: Descent of the rectum into the back side of the vagina

Urethrocele: Descent of the urethra into the front side of the vagina

Uterine Prolapse: Descent of the uterus from the top of the vagina

Risk factors for prolapse include pregnancy, child birth, obesity, chronic constipation, chronic cough, hypermobility syndromes, and history of pelvic surgery.

Symptoms of prolapse include a feeling of heaviness in the pelvis or lower abdomen, feeling a bulge in the vagina, urinary urgency or frequency, leaking urine, and feeling of incomplete emptying with bowel and bladder.

Prolapse indicates dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles and structures. Pelvic floor physical therapy can be very effective in treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.

Treatment includes improving strength and coordination of pelvic floor, education on managing intra abdominal pressure, and addressing other dysfunctions surrounding the pelvis or lifestyle factors that may contribute to prolapse. In the event that a patient opts to have surgery for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse, following up with pelvic floor physical therapy can help immensely in maintaining integrity of the repair.