Female Pelvic Organ Prolapse | Symptoms, Types, and Treatment Options

Hey everyone today we’ll share some information about Female pelvic organ Prolapse. This article will share information regarding Female Pelvic Organ Prolapse such as Symptoms, the four main types of Prolapse, and Prolapse treatment options.

Let’s first see what is Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic Organ Prolapse in simple wording is when more than 1 organ gets dislocated and falls into the vagina. It is quite possible because organs such as Uterus, Bladder, and rectum are located quite near to Vagina and it is very much understandable when tissues around them get weak these organs fall into Vagina.

In most cases, when this happens, the patient faces difficulty while going to the toilet and in most cases, the patient also feels itchiness and discomfort.

It can also result in the leakage of urine, and this whole process of leaking urine in pelvic organ prolapse is known as urinary incontinence.

Prolapse can be brought on by

• Childbirth
• Chronic coughing, chronic constipation, and heavy lifting 
• Menopause
• Obesity
• Normal aging

What are the symptoms of Prolapse

Below are the symptoms that may occur but they can vary from person to person. But most of the time below are the most common symptoms of Prolapse.

• You may face more discomfort while in periods.
• Pain in the bladder ( discomfort even after peeing)
• Pressure in Vagina.
• Increased pain in the lower back
• Discomfort and pain while lying down.

Now, there are 4 types of Prolapse.

Normal anatomy:-

Normal Anatomy is a type of prolapse. It is defined as a descent or herniation of an organ or tissue from its normal position.

Normal anatomy can be caused by many things such as pregnancy, childbirth, obesity, and menopause. Many times normal anatomy does not cause any symptoms, but sometimes it can cause pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, or difficulty having a bowel movement.

If normal anatomy is severe, it can cause the organs to protrude from the vagina. Normal anatomy is typically treated with lifestyle changes and/or surgery.

Cystourethrocele:-

Cystourethroceles are a type of prolapse that occurs when the bladder bulges into the urethra. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including childbirth, obesity, and chronic coughing.

Cystourethroceles usually cause urinary incontinence and difficulty urinating. In some cases, they can also lead to urinary tract infections.

Cystourethroceles can be treated with surgery, but in some cases, they may require no treatment at all. If you think you may have a cystourethrocele, it’s important to see a doctor so that they can properly diagnose and treat the condition.

Uterine Prolaps:-

Uterine prolapse is a type of prolapse that occurs when the uterus descends into the vaginal canal. It can occur when the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments are weakened or stretched, often as a result of childbirth.

Uterine prolapse can also be caused by menopause, obesity, or chronic coughing. Symptoms of uterine prolapse include vaginal bleeding, discomfort during sex, and difficulty urinating or having a bowel movement.

Uterine prolapse is generally treated with lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and pelvic floor exercises. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reposition the uterus.

Rectocele:-

A rectocele is a type of prolapse, which occurs when the rectum bulges into the vaginal canal. This can happen when the tissue that separates the two weakens or stretches.

Rectoceles are often caused by childbirth, chronic constipation, or menopause. Symptoms may include difficulty emptying your bowels, feeling like you need to strain when you poop, or a feeling of fullness or pressure in your vagina.

Rectoceles can usually be treated with lifestyle changes, such as increasing your fiber intake and exercising to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the rectocele.

Enterocele:-

Best Treatment option for Prolapse

It is highly important to do the right prolapse treatment. There are different prolapse treatment options. Below are some common and most effective prolapse treatment options.

1) Biofeedback therapy

Biofeedback therapy is a treatment for prolapse that uses electrical signals to help the pelvic floor muscles contract. Biofeedback therapy is effective for treating incontinence, urinary frequency, and urgency.

It can also help to improve sexual function. Biofeedback therapy is safe and does not have any side effects. The number of sessions required depends on the severity of the prolapse.

Biofeedback therapy is usually done once a week for six to eight weeks. Some people may need additional sessions.

2) Kegel Exercises

Kegel exercises are often recommended as a treatment for prolapse. They involve repeatedly contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, which can help to strengthen the muscles and support the Pelvic organs.

Kegel exercises can be done anywhere, at any time, and don’t require any special equipment. Many people find that Kegel exercises are an effective treatment for prolapse, and they can be combined with other treatments, such as pelvic floor physical therapy.

3) Wear a Pessary inside the vaginal canal

A pessary is a small, insertable device that can be used to treat pelvic organ prolapse. Prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken, allowing them to sag or droop down into the vaginal canal. This can cause discomfort and may lead to urinary incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder.

A pessary is inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs and prevent them from prolapsing. It is usually made of silicone or latex and is available in different sizes and shapes.

Pessaries are safe and effective and can be used on a long-term basis. They are also easy to insert and remove, making them a convenient option for many women.

4) Prolapse Surgery

prolapse surgery is a type of surgery that helps to treat prolapse. Prolapse is a condition where the organs in the pelvis area fall out of place and press against the vaginal wall.

This can cause pain and discomfort, and can even make it difficult to urinate or have a bowel movement. prolapse surgery helps to correct this by repairing the prolapsed organs and restoring them to their original position.

In some cases, prolapse surgery may also involve strengthening the pelvic floor muscles or ligaments. This type of surgery usually requires a hospital stay, and full recovery can take several weeks.

However, prolapse surgery can be an effective treatment for prolapse and can help improve quality of life.

5) Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment for prolapse that involves replacing the hormones estrogen and progesterone. HRT can be taken as a pill, skin patch, gel, cream, or vaginal suppository.

It comes in different doses and forms to match each woman’s needs. HRT can provide relief from hot flashes and night sweats, preserve bone density, and help with mood swings and sleep problems.

HRT may also reduce the risk of heart disease and colorectal cancer. If you’re considering HRT for prolapse treatment, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. HRT is not for everyone, and it’s important to weigh the potential risks and benefits before starting any treatment.