4 Common Signs of Pelvic Prolapse
The body is a complex network of bones, muscles, organs, and other tissues that works together to maintain basic functions. Our organs in particular are protected by muscles, connective tissue, and other materials so they can play their roles in keeping us healthy.
Your pelvic region, which connects the upper and lower parts of your body, contains several organs that, if compromised, can lead to a number of health problems. Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition resulting from problems in the pelvic area.
At offices in Wellesley and Hudson, Massachusetts, Dr. Neeraj Kohli and our skilled team at BostonUrogyn help women dealing with symptoms of pelvic prolapse or other pelvic issues.
Understanding pelvic prolapse
The pelvis holds parts of the female reproductive system (vagina, uterus), digestive system (colon, rectum), and urinary tract (bladder, urethra). The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for holding everything in place.
When these muscles weaken or become damaged, the risk of organs slipping out of place increases.
Pelvic prolapse is a pelvic floor disorder that can cause your bladder (anterior prolapse), urethra (urethrocele), rectum (posterior vaginal wall prolapse), or uterus (uterine prolapse) to descend. In each case, these organs drop to the point where they can extend or bulge out of your vagina.
Common causes of pelvic prolapse
Several things can generate the abdominal pressure necessary to cause a prolapse, including pregnancy, obesity, constipation, pelvic cancers, or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
Respiratory issues (chronic coughing) can lead to pelvic prolapse, as well as genetic factors that weaken connective tissue (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome). Estrogen loss common to menopause can help weaken pelvic floor muscles, so prolapse risk also increases with age.
Pelvic prolapse symptoms
You may have pelvic organ prolapse if you experience:
1. Uncomfortable pressure
This symptom can mean feeling a bulge coming out of your vagina or pressure that worsens with standing or coughing. It may also get worse over the course of the day.
2. Pelvic discomfort
Feelings of fullness, accompanied by aching or pain in the pelvis, are a possible indication of pelvic prolapse. Lower back pain is also likely with this condition.
3. Insertion problems
Whether you’re trying to have sex or inserting a tampon, difficulties may be due to prolapse. If insertion is possible, it may be painful.
4. Digestive problems
You may find it more difficult to urinate or defecate, leading to leaking and constipation. If the protrusion is low enough, you may need to shift it to empty your bladder or bowels.
Regardless of which organ has descended, we can help you find the treatment that fits your needs. If you have signs of pelvic organ prolapse, make an appointment by phone or online today with Dr. Kohli and the team at BostonUrogyn.
