Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when one or more pelvic organs, the vagina, uterus, bladder, urethra, small intestine, and rectum, drop from their normal position. This is often caused by the weakening of the pelvic floor, sometimes due to labor and vaginal birth or due to old age. Other risk factors include connective tissue disorder, obesity, and frequent constipation. When a pelvic organ drops, it often bulges out of the vagina. In addition to this, women with this condition may have symptoms such as: 

• Pelvic discomfort and pain 
• Leakage of urine or bowel 
• Bulge of tissue or organs, past the vaginal opening 
• Sexual pain 

Pelvic organ prolapse is named depending on the organ affected: 

• Cystocele – is the condition when the bladder protrudes into the vagina. This is also the most common pelvic organ prolapse. 
• Rectocele – the condition when the rectum bulges into the back wall of the vagina 
• Uterine – uterine prolapse is when the uterus drops into the vagina 

There are non-surgical and surgical treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse. 

For the non-surgical option, your gynecologist can recommend: 

• Pelvic floor physical therapy is your first treatment. In one of these exercises, you need to squeeze and release the muscles you use to hold in gas. This strengthens the muscles that help support the pelvic organs.  

• Your doctor might also recommend pessary. The pessary is a device inserted in the vagina to help support the prolapsed organ. It is made of silicone, usually made to fit the specific user, and is also removable.  

Surgery is also an option, especially for women who have repeated prolapse.  This can be done through the vagina or abdomen. Surgery could also restore the normal position of your vagina.  

This condition is not often talked about. But you should always prioritize your health above all else. Women often feel shame discussing this condition or its treatment. As embarrassing as it may be, this condition is something to be discussed with a gynecologist. If you notice symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, you should immediately consult a specialist to start treatment options best suited for you. Schedule an appointment with our experienced gynecologist at Doral Health and Wellness.

At Doral Health and Wellness – Women’s Health Center, we have the best GYN doctor in East New York, and we provide women with quality healthcare services. To schedule an appointment, you can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212, or call us at +1-347-384-5690. You can also visit our website to book an appointment online at https://doralhw.org or contact us at info@doralhw.org if you have any queries.