When the muscles and ligaments supporting a woman’s pelvic organs weakens, the bladder, rectum, uterus , and bowel may begin to bulge into or beyond the vagina. The different types of pelvic prolapse are named for the organ that is herniating into the vagina. These disorders are referred to as cystoceles, rectoceles, enteroceles, and uterine prolapse. These can be uncomfortable or painful, and in some woman can cause other symptoms such as urinary incontinence, urinary retention, lower abdominal pain or chronic back pain. Pelvic floor weakness is initiated with stretching with pregnancy and delivery. Pelvic surgery, such as a hysterectomy can cut suspension ligaments and cause prolapse. Aging tissue and lack of estrogen also worsens pelvis muscle sagging along with anything that puts extra pressure on the abdomen like chronic constipation or cough.
How is Pelvic Organ Prolapse treated?
Decisions about your treatment will be based on which pelvic organs have prolapsed and how symptomatic you are. Incorporating the “Bladder Fitness Program” which formulates an individualized pelvic training system for you can help dramatically reduce the symptoms of pelvic weakness. It can also be effective in helping prep the tissues for surgery or can be used post operatively to help maintain tissue integrity and strength for long term benefit.