Pelvic organ prolapse
Over time, the “pelvic floor” that normally holds your pelvic organs in place, may weaken and fail to adequately support organs like your bladder, vagina, uterus, small bowel, and rectum. As a result, these organs may stop working properly or descend lower into your body or even out of your body.
Causes of pelvic organ prolapse
The strain of childbirth is the most common cause of pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic organ prolapse can also be caused by or made worse by:
- Removal of the uterus (hysterectomy)
- Obesity
- Persistent cough
- Tumors
- Chronic constipation
Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse
Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse can include:
- Feeling pressure in the pelvic area
- Feeling full in your lower belly or pelvic area
- Feeling that something is falling out of your vagina
- Lower back pain
- Spotting or bleeding
- Pain during sex
- Bowel problems, such as constipation
- Incontinence
- Frequent urination
Diagnosing pelvic organ prolapse
Sometimes pelvic organ prolapse doesn’t cause symptoms, but may be found by your doctor during a routine exam. If you’re having symptoms, your doctor may start by doing a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. He or she may then order additional diagnostic tests especially if you’re having bladder or bowel problems. These tests may include:
- Cystoscopy, a test which examines the bladder and urethra
- Imaging studies such as an ultrasound or CT scan
- Urodynamic testing to check bladder function
Treating pelvic organ prolapse
Treatment depends on which organ has prolapsed and how much your symptoms may bother you. There are things you can do yourself to relieve your symptoms, including:
- Kegel exercises
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid strain on your pelvic muscles that may be caused by heavy lifting
- Avoid constipation
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Get mild exercise
- Eat high fiber foods
Your doctor may also have you fitted with a pessary, a removable device that you put into your vagina. The pessary can help hold your pelvic organs in place and is often successful in relieving pain and pressure.
Surgery is another treatment option but you may want to delay surgery if you still plan to have children. Having another baby could cause your prolapse to return.