Your pelvic floor is a busy set of muscles acting like a hammock for your bowel, bladder and uterus. With control and coordination the pelvic floor manages the flow of urine, bowel movements, and assists in birth and intercourse.
But, the pelvic floor can experience looseness, weakness and dysfunction. When this occurs you may have pain and discomfort during intercourse, with back pain, a frequent need to urinate, spotting, or pressure on your pelvis. These symptoms are often evident in Pelvic Organ Prolapse.
When the uterus, bowel, or bladder begin to protrude into the vaginal opening, prolapse occurs. Many women describe prolapse as feeling like a tampon is only halfway in, or increased pressure or heaviness in their pelvic floor, especially at the end of the day.
What contributes to Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
- Age
- Childbirth
- Genetics
- Menopause
- Constipation
- Chronic coughing
- Pressure from increased weight gain
Avoid worsening prolapse symptoms by avoiding breath holding and be mindful of posture with:
- Heavy lifting
- Aerobic exercises like running and jumping
1 in 5 women report prolapse in the United States.
But, Prolapse can be treated.
The pressure from these organs’ inability to stay in place may largely be due to loose and weakened pelvic floor muscles.
While there are different types of prolapse depending on which organ is descending, it can be treated! Pelvic floor exercises serve as adequate treatment for many women. In more severe cases surgery may also be recommended.
So what should you do if you think you are experiencing prolapse?
Meet with pelvic health specialists to get an accurate assessment and form a safe treatment plan. Though common, Pelvic Organ Prolapse is never normal.
Schedule a time for an accurate assessment and start treating your pelvic organ prolapse.
