If you’ve ever felt a sensation of heaviness or pressure in your pelvis, noticed something bulging from your vaginal area, or struggled with urinary or bowel symptoms that just don’t seem right, you may have wondered if something is wrong. For many women, those symptoms are signs of pelvic organ prolapse — a condition that is far more common than most people realize, yet rarely talked about openly.
At The Center for Women’s Health, we specialize in urogynecology and are committed to helping women understand, address, and find relief from pelvic floor disorders like prolapse. Here’s what you need to know.
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What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor weaken or stretch, causing one or more pelvic organs — the bladder, uterus, rectum, or small intestine — to drop from their normal position and press against or into the vaginal wall.
There are several types of prolapse, depending on which organ is affected. A cystocele occurs when the bladder drops into the front wall of the vagina. A rectocele involves the rectum pushing against the back vaginal wall. Uterine prolapse is when the uterus descends into or beyond the vaginal canal. In some cases, more than one organ is involved at the same time.
Prolapse is classified by severity, ranging from mild (the organ has dropped slightly but remains inside the vagina) to severe (the organ protrudes outside the vaginal opening).
What Causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
The pelvic floor is a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support your pelvic organs. Anything that places repeated or intense strain on this system can contribute to prolapse over time. Common causes and risk factors include childbirth — particularly vaginal deliveries involving large babies, prolonged pushing, or the use of forceps or vacuum — chronic constipation and straining, heavy lifting, obesity, hormonal changes during menopause, and a family history of prolapse.
Aging is also a significant factor, as the tissues naturally lose elasticity and strength over time. That said, prolapse can and does affect younger women, particularly those who have had multiple pregnancies.
What Are the Symptoms?
Pelvic organ prolapse can feel different from woman to woman, and symptoms often depend on the type and severity of prolapse. Common signs include a feeling of pressure, fullness, or heaviness in the pelvis, a bulge or something falling out of the vaginal area, lower back pain, difficulty with urination or incomplete bladder emptying, leakage of urine, difficulty with bowel movements, and discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
It’s worth noting that some women with prolapse experience little to no symptoms, especially in mild cases, while others find their symptoms significantly impact daily life and quality of life.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, it’s worth talking to your provider — even if you’re unsure whether what you’re feeling is prolapse. Many women delay seeking care because they feel embarrassed or assume their symptoms are just a normal part of aging or having children. They’re not something you have to live with.
At The Center for Women’s Health, our urogynecology team provides compassionate, judgment-free evaluations. Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic exam and a discussion of your symptoms and health history.
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What Are the Treatment Options?
The good news is that pelvic organ prolapse is very treatable. Options range from conservative to surgical, and the right approach depends on your symptoms, the severity of your prolapse, and your personal health goals.
Conservative options include pelvic floor physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that support your pelvic organs, lifestyle changes such as managing constipation or losing weight, and pessaries — small removable devices inserted into the vagina to support the prolapsed organ. For women whose symptoms are more severe or who don’t find relief with conservative measures, surgical repair may be recommended.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Reach out to our team at The Center for Women’s Health to schedule a consultation. Call (757) 874-2229 or visit centerforwomen.com.