Overview
Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition where one or more pelvic organs drop from their position, causing a bulge in the vagina. This occurs when the muscles and connective tissues of the pelvic floor weaken, allowing the pelvic organs to fall or slide down. The pelvic organs include the vagina, bladder, uterus, urethra, and rectum.
Types of Pelvic organ prolapse
- Cystocele: A bulge in the front wall of the vagina caused by the bladder dropping down.
- Rectocele: A bulge in the back wall of the vagina caused by the rectum dropping down.
- Urethrocele: A bulge in the front wall of the vagina caused by the urethra dropping down.
- Enterocele: A bulge in the back wall of the vagina caused by the intestines dropping down.
Causes of Pelvic organ prolapse
- Weakened pelvic muscles: Childbirth, menopause, and aging can cause the muscles of the pelvic floor to weaken.
- Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels during menopause or pregnancy can cause the pelvic muscles to weaken.
- Genetic predisposition: Some women may be born with a weaker pelvic floor due to genetic factors.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the pressure on the pelvic floor, leading to weakening of the muscles.
Risk Factors of Pelvic organ prolapse
- Age: Women over 50 are more likely to experience pelvic organ prolapse.
- Childbirth: Women who have had multiple vaginal births or have had children at an advanced age are more likely to experience pelvic organ prolapse.
- Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can increase the risk of pelvic organ prolapse.
- Family history: Women with a family history of pelvic organ prolapse may be at higher risk.
Symptoms of Pelvic organ prolapse
1. Bulge or lump in the vagina: A noticeable bulge or lump in the vagina is a common symptom of pelvic organ prolapse.
2. Pressure or discomfort: Women may experience pressure or discomfort in the pelvis or lower back.
3. Urinary Symptoms: Women may experience urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, or difficulty starting urine flow.
4. Bowel symptoms: Women may experience bowel symptoms such as constipation, difficulty controlling bowel movements, or feeling like they are not fully emptying their bowels.
Preventions of Pelvic organ prolapse
- Kegel exercises: Strengthening the pelvic muscles through Kegel exercises can help prevent pelvic organ prolapse.
- Proper lifting techniques: Using proper lifting techniques can help reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
- Avoiding straining during bowel movements: Avoiding straining during bowel movements can help reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
Diagnosis of Pelvic organ prolapse
- Physical examination: A healthcare provider will perform a physical examination to assess for signs of pelvic organ prolapse.
- Medical history: A healthcare provider will take a medical history to assess for symptoms and risk factors.
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for Pelvic organ prolapse
- Conservative treatment: Conservative treatments such as Kegel exercises and lifestyle modifications may be recommended for mild cases of pelvic organ prolapse.
- Surgical treatment: Surgical treatment may be recommended for more severe cases of pelvic organ prolapse.
- Vaginal pessaries: Vaginal pessaries may be used to support the vaginal walls and relieve symptoms.
When to seek medical attention ?
If you experience any symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse or have concerns about your vaginal health, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.
