Pelvic prolapse – What you need to know?
Pelvic prolapse is when 1 or more of the organs in the pelvis slip down from their normal position and bulge into the vagina.
It can be the uterus, bowel, bladder or top of the vagina.
A prolapse is not life threatening, but it can cause pain and discomfort.
The key symptoms of Pelvic Prolapse
- a dragging discomfort inside your vagina
- feeling like sitting on a small ball
- feeling or seeing a bulge or lump in or coming out of your vagina
- discomfort during intercourse
- problems peeing – such as feeling like your bladder is not emptying fully, needing to go to the toilet more often, or leaking a small amount of pee when you cough, sneeze or exercise (stress incontinence).
- Sometimes pelvic prolapse has no symptoms and is found during an internal examination carried out for another reason, such as Pap smear test
Causes of pelvic prolapse
Pelvic prolapse happens when the group of muscles and tissues that normally support the pelvic organs, called the pelvic floor, becomes weakened and cannot hold the organs in place firmly.
Common causes are
- pregnancy and childbirth – the most common
- getting older and going through the menopause
- being overweight
- having long-term constipation or a cough
- having a hysterectomy
- a job that requires a lot of heavy lifting
Types of prolapse
The 4 main types of prolapse are:
- the bladder bulging into the front wall of the vagina (anterior prolapse)
- the womb bulging or hanging down into the vagina (uterine prolapse)
- the top of the vagina sagging down – this happens to some women after they have had surgery to remove their uterus
- the bowel bulging forward into the back wall of the vagina (posterior wall prolapse)
It’s possible to have more than 1 of these at the same time.
Treating prolapse
Nonsurgical options include a pessary for pelvic support, Vaginal HIFU treatment.
Surgical options for treatment depend on what kind of prolapse you’re dealing with.
Pelvic prolapse can be an uncomfortable thing to discuss, but when you’re ready, we’re here to help.
We are experts in management of women’s health issues.
If you’re experiencing prolapse symptoms, please contact Rockingham Women’s Health Centre on 0895918943 to book an appointment or http://www.rockinghamwomenshealth.com.au
