Do you have pelvic organ prolapse?
We’re here to help.
Pelvic organ prolapse refers to any of the pelvic organs— bladder, uterus, vagina or rectum—dropping from their normal position and causing pressure or creating a vaginal bulge.
Many women experience no symptoms, While women of all ages may be If you suspect you have pelvic while others may experience some of affected by pelvic organ prolapse, organ prolapse, it’s important the following, which tend to progress it is more common in older women. very gradually: Certain factors may increase your to discuss your condition with risk, including: your doctor. There are many –– A bulge near the opening of the vagina treatment options available –– Pregnancy and childbirth (especially –– Pressure or heavy sensation in to improve your symptoms the vagina delivery of large babies) and quality of life—all of –– A feeling of fullness in your lower –– Chronic cough belly or of “sitting on a ball” –– Chronic constipation or straining which are available through –– Difficult or strained bowel movements during bowel movements the Women’s Pelvic Health –– Vaginal dryness or irritation and pain –– Frequent heavy lifting Program at the Katz Institute with intercourse –– Menopause for Women’s Health. –– Difficulty starting to urinate, frequent –– Obesity urination or leaking of urine –– Connective-tissue disorders –– Irregular spotting or bleeding from –– Prior pelvic surgery/hysterectomy the vagina –– Lower back discomfort To make an appointment, call us at (855) 850-KIWH (5494).
Turn over to learn about diagnosis and treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic organ prolapse: Diagnosis and treatment
How do we diagnose pelvic organ prolapse? The good news? Treatments are available. Diagnosis begins with your medical history and a physical Treatment may include a variety of options, depending exam of your pelvic organs. Some additional tests may be on the severity of your symptoms. Many women are able necessary (including bladder function tests, pelvic floor to reduce pain and pressure from a pelvic organ prolapse strength tests, MRI or ultrasound) to help determine the with non-surgical treatment. Your doctor may recommend exact type of prolapse. lifestyle and behavioral changes, as well as exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Another option is the There are several different types of pelvic organ use of a pessary, a device inserted into the vagina to support prolapse, including: the pelvic organs. –– Cystocele (or dropped bladder): The supportive tissue If your pain and discomfort are not relieved, surgical options between the bladder and vaginal wall weakens or are available. Surgery may include: stretches, causing the bladder to protrude into the vagina. –– Reinforcement of supportive tissue of the bladder or rectum –– Rectocele: The end of the large intestine or rectum pushes –– Hysterectomy or removal of the uterus against and moves the back wall of the vagina. –– Support of the apex of the vagina –– Enterocele: The front and back vaginal walls weaken, –– Closure of the vagina allowing the small intestine to press against the vagina causing a bulge. These procedures can be performed through minimally –– Uterine prolapse: There is inadequate support for the invasive surgery (laparoscopic, vaginal or DaVinci robotic uterus due to weakened or stretched pelvic floor muscles surgery), allowing a smaller incision and quicker recovery time. and/or ligaments, causing the uterus to descend into or protrude out of the vagina. –– Rectal prolapse: The connection between the pelvis and Speak with your doctor to develop the most rectum weakens, causing the rectum to protrude out appropriate treatment plan for your lifestyle and through the anus. overall health goals.
To learn more or make an appointment, call us at (855) 850-KIWH (5494).
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