Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more organs in the pelvis, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, move out of place and push against the vaginal walls. At ATI Physical Therapy, we offer specialized treatment for pelvic organ prolapse to help you restore comfort and function.

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition where the pelvic organs descend from their normal position due to weakened support structures. This can result in one or more organs bulging into or out of the vagina. The severity of prolapse can range from mild to severe, affecting a woman’s quality of life and daily activities.

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Pelvic Organ Prolapse Causes

The primary causes of pelvic organ prolapse include:

  • Childbirth: Vaginal deliveries can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles, increasing the risk of prolapse.
  • Age and Menopause: As women age and estrogen levels decrease, pelvic tissues may weaken.
  • Chronic Strain: Prolonged straining due to constipation or heavy lifting can contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor.
  • Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on the pelvic organs.
  • Hysterectomy: Previous pelvic surgeries can affect the support structures.
  • Genetic Factors: Some women may be predisposed to weaker connective tissue.

Treatment Options

Womens Health
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Pregnancy Postpartum Care
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Prepost Surgical Care
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Pelvic Organ Prolapse Symptoms

Common symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse include:

  • A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis.
  • Discomfort or a bulging sensation in the vaginal area.
  • Difficulty with urination or bowel movements.
  • Pain during sexual activity.
  • Lower back pain.
  • A visible or palpable tissue protruding from the vagina.
  • Urinary or fecal incontinence.

If you notice these symptoms, early treatment is crucial to managing the condition and preventing further progression.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse FAQ

Pelvic pain can be a complex and challenging condition, affecting individuals in various ways. Understanding its diagnosis, treatment options, and management strategies is essential for navigating this discomfort effectively. In this FAQ section, we provide answers to common questions regarding how pelvic pain is diagnosed, the benefits of physical therapy, what to expect during treatment, and the timeline for recovery.

While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Practicing pelvic floor exercises regularly
  • Avoiding heavy lifting
  • Managing chronic cough or constipation
  • Quitting smoking

Treatment options include:

  • Conservative management with pelvic floor physical therapy
  • Use of pessaries (supportive devices inserted into the vagina)
  • Lifestyle modifications
  • In severe cases, surgical intervention may be recommended

Pelvic organ prolapse physical therapy can help by:

  • Strengthening pelvic floor muscles
  • Improving core stability
  • Teaching proper body mechanics
  • Providing education on lifestyle modifications
  • Offering manual therapy techniques to address pain and discomfort

No, surgery is not always necessary. Many women can effectively manage their symptoms with conservative treatments like physical therapy, pessaries, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is typically considered for severe cases or when conservative measures have not provided sufficient relief.

Physical Therapy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse at ATI

At ATI Physical Therapy, our pelvic health specialists are dedicated to helping you manage pelvic organ prolapse effectively, improve your quality of life, and prevent further progression of the condition. Contact ATI Physical Therapy today to start your journey towards better pelvic health.

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