Pelvic Prolapse
Experiencing pelvic prolapse can be distressing, but it's more common than you might think. At the LBPC, our compassionate and skilled team is here to provide the support and treatment you need. Reach out to us today, and let's work together to restore your comfort and quality of life.
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What is a Prolapse?
A pelvic prolapse, also known as pelvic organ prolapse (POP), occurs when one or more pelvic organs bulge into or protrude through the vaginal canal due to weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles and tissues. The pelvic organs that can prolapse include the bladder (cystocele) "SIS-toh-seel", rectum (rectocele) "REK-toh-seel", uterus (uterine prolapse) "YOO-tuh-reen", and the top of the vagina (vaginal vault prolapse) after a hysterectomy.
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What Causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Several factors can contribute to pelvic organ prolapse, and understanding these factors can help in managing and preventing it. Here are some of the most common causes:
Childbirth: Vaginal deliveries can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles and tissues, increasing the risk of prolapse later in life.
Aging: Natural aging processes can lead to weakening of pelvic tissues and muscles, making prolapse more likely.
Chronic Straining: Activities such as chronic constipation, heavy lifting, or chronic coughing can strain pelvic floor muscles and contribute to prolapse.
Menopause: Decreased oestrogen levels during menopause can lead to decreased muscle tone and support in the pelvic area.
Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to weaker connective tissues, increasing their risk of prolapse.
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How do you experience a Prolapse?
Having prolapse of the uterus, bladder, or bowel can cause a range of symptoms that affect your daily life. You might feel a noticeable bulge or pressure in your pelvic area, especially when you're standing, walking, or doing heavy lifting. Sometimes, you might notice a bulge or lump around your vaginal area which can also be more noticeable when you strain.
You might experience discomfort or pain in your lower abdomen or back, which can get worse during the day or when you cough or strain. Issues like leaking urine when you laugh or sneeze, feeling like you need to pee urgently, or having trouble fully emptying your bladder can also happen with bladder prolapse.
With rectal prolapse, you might have difficulty with bowel movements or feel like things aren't quite emptying properly. Sexual intercourse might become uncomfortable, and even inserting a tampon can feel different or uncomfortable due to the changes in your pelvic area.
These symptoms can vary from person to person, and it's important to talk about them so we can create a plan that works for you. We can explore exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, discuss lifestyle adjustments, and consider other options like a pessary or, in some cases, surgery.
Our goal is to help you feel more comfortable and improve your quality of life. Let's work together to find the best approach for managing your symptoms and supporting your pelvic health."
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How can we help?
As physiotherapists specialising in pelvic health, we can assist in managing pelvic organ prolapse through a personalised treatment plan. Here’s how we can work together:
Assessment and Diagnosis: We can conduct a thorough assessment to determine the extent of prolapse and identify any contributing factors.
Pelvic Floor Exercises: Teaching you specific exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improve support, and reduce symptoms of prolapse.
Lifestyle Modifications: Providing guidance on lifestyle changes, such as proper lifting techniques, managing constipation, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce strain on the pelvic floor.
Use of Supportive Devices: Recommending and fitting supportive devices like pessaries to provide additional support for pelvic organs.
Education and Advice: Offering education on pelvic health, including bladder and bowel habits, and providing strategies to optimize pelvic floor function.
By working together, we can develop a comprehensive plan to manage your pelvic organ prolapse effectively, improve symptoms, and enhance your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance!
