June 2, 2024
Pelvic Organ Prolapse, also known as POP, occurs when the pelvic floor, which is the collection of muscles, ligaments and connective tissue, can no longer adequately support the organs in the pelvic region, and they start to drop from their normal position.
Organs that can prolapse, or drop down into the vaginal canal, could be the uterus, the vagina itself, bladder (most common and called a cystocele), urethra (urethrocele), small intestine, or rectum (rectocele). When this occurs, women may sense a falling out feeling, a heaviness, or pressure in the perineum. They might see or feel something at the vaginal opening they’ve never noticed before. It can contribute to urinary incontinence, urinary urgency, voiding dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic pain. If still menstruating, women may notice tampons or menstrual cups aren’t feeling the same or staying in place.
Prolapse can be caused from changes during pregnancy and childbirth that weaken the pelvic floor muscles, but it can also affect women who never had children. Aging, hormone changes during menopause, obesity, connective tissue disorders, prior hysterectomy, and chronic straining habits can all impact pelvic organ prolapse. Straining habits could include chronic constipation, chronic coughing, or lifestyles/jobs that require repetitive, heavy lifting.
Pelvic Floor Specialists at New Life Physical Therapy can work with you to find the right path for you to assist and help manage your prolapse concerns.
Not sure where to start? Call or email us to schedule an initial evaluation and determine what options are available to you.