What is a Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when a pelvic organ, such as the bladder, uterus, or bowel, drops from its normal position due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. While more common in women, especially after childbirth, menopause, or pelvic surgery, men can also experience prolapse, often due to chronic straining or ageing. Symptoms typically include urinary issues, pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area, and discomfort. Treatment varies based on severity and may include lifestyle changes, Kegel exercises, or the use of a pessary.
Are There Different Types of Prolapses?
There are several types of pelvic organ prolapse that you might be experiencing, each involving different organs which affects your body in unique ways:
Cystocele (Prolapsed Bladder)
This is when the bladder drops into the vaginal area (or scrotum) due to weakened support tissues. It can lead to urinary issues like incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder.
Rectocele (Prolapsed Bowel)
This type of prolapse happens when the rectum bulges into the vagina, often causing difficulty with bowel movements and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. Though rare, men can get a rectal prolapse, which typically results in the rectum partly protruding.
Uterine Prolapse
This condition involves the uterus descending into or out of the vaginal canal, leading to pressure in the pelvic area, discomfort, and sometimes visible protrusion.
What Are the Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapses?
Identifying pelvic organ prolapse symptoms early can help determine whether you’re experiencing this condition and guide you in seeking the appropriate treatment. The most common symptoms include:
- Pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area, often feeling like something is “falling out.”
- Discomfort during physical activities or prolonged standing.
- Urinary issues like difficulty starting urination, frequent urges, or incontinence (linked to prolapsed bladder).
- Bowel problems such as constipation, difficulty with bowel movements, or incomplete evacuation (related to prolapsed bowel).
What Causes a Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapses often occur due to a combination of factors that weaken the pelvic floor muscles, making it harder for them to support the pelvic organs properly. These factors include:
Childbirth
The process of labour and delivery can significantly stretch and strain the pelvic floor muscles, especially in cases of multiple or difficult births, making pelvic organ prolapse more likely.
Ageing
As the body ages, muscles and tissues naturally lose strength and elasticity, weakening the pelvic floor and increasing the risk of prolapse over time.
Obesity
Carrying excess weight puts additional pressure on the pelvic region, further weakening the support structures and contributing to conditions like uterine prolapse or a prolapsed bladder.
Chronic Straining
Activities like heavy lifting, persistent coughing, or straining during bowel movements place constant stress on the pelvic floor muscles, heightening the risk of pelvic organ prolapse.
How are Pelvic Organ Prolapses Treated?
Pelvic organ prolapse treatments vary depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health.
Mild cases
Lifestyle changes such as weight management, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating constipation can help reduce symptoms and prevent the prolapse from worsening. Pelvic floor exercises, like Kegels, are often recommended to strengthen the pelvic muscles, providing better support for the affected organs.
Pronounced prolapses
Pessaries are devices that are inserted into the vagina or rectum to help hold the pelvic organs in place, offering relief from symptoms without the need for surgery.
Severe cases
If the above measures aren’t enough, surgical options may be needed. These would range from minimally invasive procedures to more extensive surgeries, such as pelvic organ prolapse surgery, which may involve repairing the pelvic floor or removing the affected organ.
When To Get Help For a Pelvic Organ Prolapse
If you notice symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse that are worsening or significantly impacting your quality of life, it’s time to seek medical help.
Symptoms like persistent pelvic pressure, difficulty with urination or bowel movements, or a visible bulge in the vaginal area should not be ignored.
Seeking medical advice early can prevent the condition from worsening and help you find the most effective treatment options, whether they involve lifestyle changes, a pessary, or pelvic organ prolapse surgery.
Why Go Private With Mid Ulster Clinic For Your Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment?
Choosing Mid Ulster Clinic for your pelvic organ prolapse treatment ensures that you receive expert care and personalised solutions tailored to your specific needs.
- Expert Specialist Care: Gain access to experienced specialists skilled in diagnosing and treating various types of pelvic organ prolapse so you receive the most accurate and effective care.
- Personalised Treatment Plans: Your care is customised to fit your unique situation, considering factors like the severity of your prolapse and overall health, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
- Prompt and Private Care: As a private clinic, you can book appointments sooner than NHS, allowing you to address your prolapse concerns quickly and discreetly.
Take the first step towards effective treatment by selecting ‘Book an Appointment’ today. With the help of our experienced specialists, you can regain control of your pelvic health.
- Medically Reviewed