Prolapse: Let’s Get It Sorted
Today is not going to be an anatomy lesson. I’m not going into detail about what a prolapse is, rather I am focusing on how we can fix it. (If you do need a quick lesson on what a prolapse is, there is a brief outline at the bottom of this page ;) )
Almost every woman I see in the clinic who has symptoms of a prolapse will say “Can it be fixed?” The answer is almost always YES.
Yes, you can heal from a prolapse.
Yes, you can have another vaginal delivery if that is what you want.
Yes, you can have a caesarean if that is your preference.
No, you don’t have to suffer with it forever.
Stop googling ‘how to fix a prolapse’ and listen up. I am an evidence-based physiotherapist, and this journal today is about what we KNOW.
We KNOW that pelvic floor muscle training can help to improve prolapse symptoms AND reduce the severity of the prolapse.
We KNOW that it is absolutely still safe to have sex if you have a prolapse.
We KNOW that lifestyle modifications as well as pessaries (vaginal support devices) play a role in improving prolapse symptoms and severity.
We KNOW that psychological well-being is intimately related to pelvic floor symptoms.
And, we know that your emotions strongly impact your willingness to discuss and seek care for prolapse, so I am willing you, please reach out for help. Find your local Pelvic Floor Physio, send them a message, fill in the contact form, book that appointment or make the call if you are feeling brave. Reaching out the first time is absolutely the hardest bit and I will tell you now, it is worth it!
Pelvic Organ Prolapse - The basics
What is a pelvic organ prolapse?
When the pelvic organs (bladder, bowel or uterus) are not adequately supported, they are then able to bulge or press into the walls of the vagina. Either the front wall, the back wall or the top of the vagina.
What are the signs and symptoms of a prolapse?
Common symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse are the sensation of fullness or a bulge in your vagina, heaviness or a dragging feeling. Some women say it just doesn’t feel right down there. Unusual bleeding or recurrent urinary tract infections. Difficulty emptying your bowels. Trouble with bladder leaking or not emptying properly or feeling like you always need to go to the toilet. Sometimes signs of a prolapse will be sexual problems or pain as well.
Who does this happen too?
The unfortunate thing is that about half of all women who have had a baby will have some level of prolapse. Not all of these women will have symptoms though, a lot wont even know they have a prolapse. AND remember what I have told you, you can heal after a prolapse.
A prolapse can also occur with repetitive straining like chronic coughing, lifting heavy loads without proper technique and straining on the toilet. And if you have seen me in the clinic you know how much I talk about good toilet position and habits!
DISCLAIMER: This information is intended to be used as a guide of general nature, having regard to general circumstances. The information presented should not be relied on as a substitute for medical advice, independent judgement or proper assessment by a doctor, with consideration of the particular circumstances of each case and individual needs. This information reflects information available at the time of its preparation, but its currency should be determined having regard to other available information. Megan Mullane disclaims all liability to users of the information provided. Please email megan@meganmullane.com.au for a reference list.