All About Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition affecting many people. Unfortunately, it is not often talked about, leaving those who experience this condition to feel alone and confused. We are here to go over what exactly POP is, why it happens, and what you can do to stop it if it does happen to you.
What is POP?
POP occurs when one or more organs descend from their normal resting position in the pelvic cavity. Most commonly, these organs are the uterus, bladder, or rectum. This can present as a feeling of "heaviness", or bulging around the vaginal opening or rectum. Depending on the severity, you may also see or feel something externally.
What causes POP?
This condition is caused by weakness and laxity in the connective tissue, ligaments, and muscles of the pelvic floor. Normally these structures are strong and “bouncy” like a trampoline, ascending and descending with your breath and supporting your organs appropriately with changes in pressure (exercise, lifting, etc.).
Changes during pregnancy and during birth can cause this laxity and we can see the organs begin to drop. But it is not uncommon for women who have not given birth to also experience prolapse. Some contributing factors aside from pregnancy and childbirth are hormonal changes with menopause, aging, surgeries like hysterectomies, straining during bowel movements, heavy lifting/exercise with breath holding, chronic coughing, and genetics.
When an organ drops, this organ or another one that it’s placing pressure on, can descend and bulge out of the vagina.
What are the symptoms of a POP?
People with POP may experience one of many of the following:
- Leaking urine or stool
- Discomfort or heaviness in the vagina
- Pain with sex
- Noises from your vagina during exercise
- Seeing tissue coming out of your vagina
- Back pain
- Difficulty reaching orgasm
- Constipation
What do I do if I have a prolapse?
Since there are many different types of POP and lots of variability in each individual’s contributing factors, it’s important to see a specialized pelvic floor physiotherapist who has experience assessing and treating this condition. It may be tempting to do a quick google search and start trying kegels, but this can often do more harm than good. Many people suffering from POP actually have TOO much tension in their pelvic floors. The muscles and fascia, therefore, require releasing and relaxing BEFORE strengthening. A specialist will be able to tell you exactly what you need to do to get on the road to restoring your pelvic floor and create an individualized treatment plan for your specific needs. Another important thing is NOT to wait to seek help. Many times people push it off because they are nervous or think it's "normal." We like to stress that common does not mean normal and if you feel like something is not right, it's best to seek help from a pelvic floor physical therapist right away and hopefully negate the need for less conservative treatments.
Contact us today to talk about what we can do to help you with pelvic organ prolapse at (401) 602 -7006, or any other concerns you have about your pelvic health!