Prolapse

What is prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse refers to the loosening or weakening of the connective tissues and muscles supporting the pelvic organs, including the uterus, bladder, and rectum. This results in one or more of the pelvic organs falling, pressing, or dropping into or out of the vagina.

Uterine prolapse

Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus descends into or toward your vagina. In some instances, the uterus can protrude from the vaginal opening.

Bladder prolapse

The bladder is held in place by a curved hammock of supportive pelvic floor muscles and tissues. When these tissues become stretched or weakened, the bladder can drop out of place and bulge through this layer and into your vagina.

Vaginal prolapse

With vaginal prolapse, your vagina stretches or expands to protrude through the vaginal opening. Vaginal prolapse typically doesn’t just involve the vagina, but other organs that are pressing on it.

Rectal prolapse

Rectal prolapse involves your rectum and the loss of normal bodily attachments that allow the rectum to telescope out through the anus.

What causes prolapse?

Prolapse can have a number of causes, such as:

• Pregnancy
• Trauma during childbirth
• Delivery of a large baby
• Chronic bronchitis or coughing
• Repeated heavy lifting
• Chronic constipation
• Nerve damage
• Being obese or overweight
• Lower estrogen level following menopause
• Chronic straining or constipation with bowel movements
• Anal or pelvic injury
• Diseases, such as diabetes  

Prolapse is primarily associated with hormones, menopause, childbirth, and aging.

How is prolapse treated?

How your prolapse is treated depends on a number of factors, such as your health and preferences and the type and severity of your prolapse. Conservative treatments might include:

• Medications, such as muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatories
• Healthy lifestyle modifications, such as exercise, stress management, and a nutrient-dense diet
• Targeted exercises and physical rehabilitation
• Behavior changes, such as avoiding pushing or straining when having a bowel movement or urinating
• A pessary device that’s inserted into the vagina

Dr. Marinescu or Dr. Baker might suggest minimally invasive procedures when necessary, such as surgery to narrow the vagina to support prolapsed organs, a hysterectomy to remove your uterus, or reconstructive surgery to restore your organs to their original positions.

OBGYN CARE provides mesh-free suspension techniques using the minimally invasive da Vinci® robotic surgical system, which typically allows for smaller incisions, less downtime, and a smoother and faster recovery.

For compassionate care for pelvic organ prolapse, call OBGYN CARE or book online today.