Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more walls of the vagina weaken, allowing organs like the bladder, rectum, or uterus to descend into or out of the vaginal canal. Often described as a “bulge” in the vagina, prolapse can vary in severity. Some women may only feel occasional pressure, while others might notice a more prominent bulging sensation.

What Causes the Vaginal Walls to Fall?

Factors like pregnancy, genetics, and aging all contribute to prolapse risk. During pregnancy and childbirth, the vaginal walls and the connective tissue (fascia) can stretch, weakening the pelvic support structures. Genetics also play a role; women with a family history of prolapse may be at higher risk.

How Would I Know If I Have Prolapse?

Women with pelvic organ prolapse commonly report symptoms such as:

• A sensation of vaginal pressure or fullness.

• Feeling like a ball or bulge is in the vaginal area.

• Urinary issues, including incontinence or frequent urination.

• Difficulty with bowel movements.

• Lower back pain or fatigue.

  
  

Patients are often relieved to know that this is a structural issue rather than a growth or cancer, as the symptoms can feel alarming at first.

Who Is at Risk for Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse can affect women of all ages, though it is most common in older women. Here are some primary risk factors:

• Pregnancy and childbirth are the leading causes, with the weight of pregnancy and the stretching during delivery impacting pelvic support.

• Genetics also play a role, as some women have naturally weaker connective tissues.

• Menopause often leads to thinning of the vaginal tissues, increasing the likelihood of prolapse.

• Lifestyle factors like chronic constipation, heavy lifting, or obesity can exacerbate existing weaknesses in the pelvic floor.

Alright, I’ve Got a Bulge; What Do I Do about It?

Treatment for pelvic organ prolapse depends on its severity and how much it affects your daily life. Here are some of the options available:

• Observation:For mild cases, simply monitoring symptoms may be all that’s needed. Prolapse does not always progress, and some women find their symptoms manageable with lifestyle adjustments, like avoiding heavy lifting and practicing proper body mechanics.

• Pessary Device:A pessary is a removable silicone device placed inside the vagina to provide support. This non-surgical option is especially beneficial for women who want to avoid surgery or have health conditions that make surgery risky. With the right fit, a pessary can be comfortable and effective, helping women resume their normal activities without prolapse symptoms.

• Pelvic Floor Therapy:Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises or therapy can help relieve symptoms, particularly in milder cases. However, because prolapse involves weakened connective tissue, pelvic floor exercises alone cannot reverse it. Pelvic floor strengthening can be particularly beneficial post-surgery to help maintain results.

• Surgical Repair:For more severe prolapse or when other treatments don’t provide relief, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options include vaginal and abdominal procedures that use either natural tissue or synthetic mesh to support the prolapsed organs. For older patients who are not sexually active, there is also an option for a simpler, lower-risk “vaginal closure” surgery.

  
  

  

Don’t Believe These Common Myths about Prolapse!

• Myth 1: Prolapse means my bladder or uterus is outside my body.Dr. Jackson explains that the sensation of a “bulge” is due to the weakened vaginal wall, not the bladder or rectum itself protruding out of the body.

• Myth 2: Sex can worsen prolapse.Prolapse doesn’t affect sexual activity negatively, and intercourse will not worsen the prolapse. Many patients worry unnecessarily about this; rest assured that it’s safe to maintain an active sex life.

• Myth 3: I can’t use a pessary long-term.Proper care and regular follow-ups make long-term pessary use safe and effective. A well-fitted pessary can be life-changing for many women, especially those who are not candidates for surgery.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, remember that help is available. From non-surgical options to surgical repairs, you can manage and treat this condition effectively. As with any health decision, consult with a qualified specialist, ideally a urogynecologist, to explore the best course of action for your needs.

Listen to Dr Jackson go into detail about this topic!  You can hear the full episode on her podcast, Ageless and Outrageous.  Be sure to like and follow so you don’t miss an episode!

https://agelessandoutrageous.alitu.com/

The team at Foundations at Maitland are all vaginal and sexual health experts who have been helping men and women have a more fulfilling and intimate sex life for over 20 years.  If you are considering vaginal rejuvenation or prolapse surgery, you deserve to only see an expert.  

SCHEDULE YOUR VAGINAL REJUVENATION CONSULTATION AT

FOUNDATIONS AT MAITLAND

At Foundations at Maitland, in Maitland FL, we offer a full range of non-surgical treatments to help you reach your aesthetic, wellness, and sexual goals.  Our providers are highly trained and experienced.  We are led by our double-board certified surgeon, Dr Kristin Jackson, who has personally developed all treatment protocols and is closely involved in the day-to-day operations of our medical spa.  With her extensive training in all non-surgical cosmetic treatments as well as over 20 years of surgical experience, Dr Jackson is uniquely qualified to ensure our medical spa provides you with the highest standards of quality care and safety.

If you are looking for vaginal rejuvenation doctors near you, we can help!  Contact us today for your complimentary consultation!