Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition that affects many women around the world. It is a condition that occurs when the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, drop from their normal positions and press against the vaginal walls. This can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, such as urinary incontinence, painful intercourse, and constipation.

In this blog post, we will explore the basics of pelvic organ prolapse, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of pelvic organ prolapse. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Pregnancy and Childbirth: During pregnancy, the pelvic floor muscles can become weakened, and this can lead to prolapse. Additionally, vaginal delivery can stretch and damage the muscles and tissues in the pelvic area, making it more likely that the organs will fall out of place.
2. Aging: As women get older, the muscles and tissues in the pelvic area can become weaker, which can increase the risk of prolapse.
3. Chronic Coughing: Chronic coughing can put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, which does not cause prolapse, but may potentially worsen it if prolapse is already present. Think of a crack in a cemented driveway. The more you drive over the crack, the more likely it is to worsen over time.
4. Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the pelvic organs, which can cause them to drop from their normal positions.

Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

The symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include:

1. A feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area.
2. Pain or discomfort during intercourse.
3. Urinary incontinence or difficulty urinating.
4. Constipation or difficulty having a bowel movement.
5. Vaginal bleeding or discharge.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to rule out other issues that may be causing these symptoms.

Treatment Options for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

There are several treatment options available for pelvic organ prolapse. The type of treatment that is recommended will depend on the severity of the prolapse and the specific symptoms that you are experiencing. Some of the most common treatment options include:

1. Kegel Exercises: Kegel exercises can help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and reduce the symptoms of prolapse.
2. Pessary: A pessary is a device that is inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs and keep them in place.
3. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the muscles and tissues in the pelvic area and restore the organs to their normal positions.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes such as losing weight and quitting smoking can also help to reduce the symptoms of prolapse.

Conclusion

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition that can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. However, with the right treatment, most women are able to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If you are dealing with bothersome symptoms of prolapse, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to discuss your options and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

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Ready to see a urogynecologist for prolapse? Call our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Peter Lotze and his team. We have offices located in Houston, Texas, and in The Woodlands, Texas. Virtual visit appointments are also available upon request.

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