PROLAPSE

PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE

Pelvic organ refers most commonly to the uterus and / or the different vaginal compartments and their neighboring organs such as the bladder, rectum, or bowel. Prolapse refers to a falling, slipping or downward displacement of a part of a organ. Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is thus, primarily, a definition of anatomical change. Some such changes may well be considered within the range of normality for certain women.

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Types 

• Uterine/ cervical prolapse

• Anterior vaginal wall prolapse 

• Posterior vaginal wall prolapse

• Vaginal vault (cuff scar) prolapse

• Enterocele prolapse

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Prolapse symptoms are generally worse in situations when gravity might make the prolapse worse (e.g. after long periods of standing or exercise) and better when gravity is not a factor e.g. lying supine, or more noticeable at times of abdominal straining e.g. defecation.

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• Bulge, lump or pressure in the vaginal region

• Lower abdominal pain or lower back pain

• Bleeding, discharge or vaginal infection

• Digital splinting to pass a bowel motion (splinting of the perineum, vaginal wall or anus)

• Voiding dysfunction: urinary hesitancy, slow flow, intermittent flow, straining, spraying, dribbling, splinting, pain, increased frequency, urgency, increased urinary residual or feeling of incomplete emptying

• Bowel dysfunction: straining, digital assistance, incomplete emptying, urgency or soiling

• Sexual dysfunction: pain, obstruction, low libido or vaginal laxity 

MANAGEMENT

You can see from above there are many symptoms related to prolapse which can also be related to other issues aswell. A detailed vaginal assessment is vital in the diagnosis and management of pelvic organ prolapse. 

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At Karen Crudden Pelvic Health Physiotherapy & Pilates, we hear your story, assess, set goals, plan and provide patient - centered treatment options, allowing you to regain the very best from life once more. 

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Management options can be split into 3 simple options 1/ watchful waiting 2/ conservative management (lifestyle or contributing factor modifications, appropriate and progressive pelvic floor exercises, +/- pessary, +/- topical hormonal adjuncts) 3/ surgical management. All options will be discussed at your appointment, and further explored to asses individual patient suitability.

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Specialist pessary clinic.

This type of conservative management can be life changing for women.  You DO NOT need to be referred from your G.P, gynecologist or obstetrician to access this services. This specialist service can be extremely valuable in the management of pelvic organ prolapse and certain types of urinary incontinence. For further information please phone or book an appointment.