Causes of pelvic organ prolapse
The pelvic organs consist of the uterus, bladder, and rectum, which are held in place by pelvic tissues and pelvic floor muscles. Due to childbirth, weakening muscles, heavy lifting, chronic coughing, or surgery, there are times when a pelvic organ such as the bladder drops from its normal place and pushes against the wall of the vagina. This is known as pelvic organ prolapse, and may cause discomfort or pain. More than one organ may prolapse at the same time, which include the bladder, urethra, uterus, vaginal, small bowel, or rectum.
Signs & symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse
Early onset of pelvic organ prolapse may not bring about any symptoms. When a prolapse is further down, common symptoms include:
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Weak or intermittent urine stream
- Reoccurring urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Heavy sensation felt in the vagina
- Bulging lump in the vagina or at vaginal entrance
- Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- Frequent urination
- Dull backache
If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. It is important to consult with a urogynaecologist to understand the treatment and management of the condition.
Diagnosis & treatment
Your urogynaecologist will take your medical history and perform a physical examination. Further tests may also be recommended for a full investigation.
Treatment depends on the type of prolapse, the woman's age, childbirth plans, as well as severity of the condition. In certain cases, lifestyle changes and pelvic floor exercises may be recommended. If non-surgical treatment does not provide sufficient relief from symptoms, surgical intervention may be required. With the advancement of medical technology, minimally invasive surgical techniques are now available which offers minimal scarring and faster recovery time. Talk to your urogynaecologist to find out more.
Tips to improve pelvic health
After giving birth, or as you age, you may notice that your pelvic muscles start to weaken. Here are some ways that can help improve pelvic health:
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Do not smoke
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Perform pelvic floor exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles
- Prevent constipation by drinking plenty of fluids and increasing the amount of fibre in your diet
- If you have chronic cough, seek medical treatment to control coughing
Pelvic floor therapy
Pelvic floor therapy involves a series of exercises that help strengthen muscles supporting the bladder, bowels and uterus. These exercises can help prevent pelvic floor dysfunction.
Try the following pelvic floor exercises:
- Kegels – This exercise involves contracting and holding your pelvic floor muscles for 5 seconds and then relaxing the muscles for another 5 seconds. Do this exercise 10 times and repeat 3 times a day.
- Squats – Bend your knees and push your hips and buttocks out until your thighs are parallel to the ground. Do this exercise 10 times and repeat 2 – 3 times a day.
- Bridges – Lie on the floor with your back flat on the ground and your knees bent. Raise your hips off the ground and hold for 1 – 2 seconds. Do this 10 times and repeat 2 – 3 times a day.
Consult any of our urogynaecologists today for more information.