Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) happens when the muscles and ligaments in the pelvic floor are impaired causing the pelvic organs such as the bladder, bowel or uterus to sag or bulge out into the vagina or rectal opening.

A pelvic organ prolapse could start out mild with a small bulge at the opening of the vagina or rectum. This is commonly accompanied with incontinence and a feeling of heaviness in the pelvis area.

Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Normal Anatomy

Prolapsed Bladder
(cystocele)

Prolapsed Uterus
(uterine prolapse)

Prolapsed Rectum
(rectal prolapse)

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Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is caused by a weak pelvic floor that is unable to support the pelvic organs, namely the bladder, rectum and uterus (in women). This is commonly caused by:

Pregnancy or childbirth
Hormonal changes during menopause
Repetitive heavy lifting
Constipation
Chronic cough
Obesity
Genetic factors

Symptoms

Common symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse include:

A heaviness in your vagina or rectum
A bulge in the vagina that you can see or feel
Discomfort during sexual intercourse
Groin or lower back pain
Difficulty peeing or passing stool
Incontinence
Frequent urinary tract infections

Prevention & Treatment

Strengthening the pelvic floor is beneficial to avoid a pelvic organ prolapse from developing or worsening. Exercises such as pelvic floor strengthening exercises or Kegel exercises can be done in the management and recovery process.

However, if a prolapse is more severe, more invasive solutions such as surgery or wearing of a pessary may be required. Orchard Clinic’s method uses the highest intensity of non-surgical treatment in the prevention and treatment of mild POP cases.

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FAQ about Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Can it go away on its own?

The condition will not go away on its own if the pelvic floor is not strengthened. In some cases, doing kegel or pelvic floor exercises are sufficient to recover, but in severe cases, surgery may be the only option.

Can I prevent pelvic organ prolapse?

Ensuring the pelvic floor is well toned is a good way to prevent pelvic organ prolapse due to pregnancy, childbirth or menopause.

Can you treat all cases of pelvic organ prolapse?

Our treatments are highly effective, however, not every condition may be suitable depending on its severity. An assessment is recommended for a better understanding of the individual condition.