Have you ever googled your symptoms and seen the word prolapse come up? Or maybe you saw it when researching postpartum issues that may happen to you? Or maybe you’ve even been diagnosed with prolapse on a gynecological exam with little information on what it is or where to go from here?
However you have come across pelvic organ prolapse, it can be scary and intimidating. But I am here to bust some myths and help you feel more confident in how to treat, improve, and live with pelvic organ prolapse.
⁃ Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs (ie the bladder, uterus, rectum) descend from their normal position and creating pressure and bulging on the v@ginal wall, and it is SUPER common. In fact, the prevalence is up to 50% in adult women on gynecological exams with the greatest risk factors for developing prolapse being previous childbirth, previous hysterectomy, menopause, obesity, and genetic factors causing weakened collagen or increased laxity.
⁃ Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms do not always match the severity. And just because you have a prolapse does not mean you have to have any symptoms at all! Those that are symptomatic may report feeling pelvic pressure at rest or with activity or a bulging sensation in their pelvic floor.
⁃ The fear and psychological strain of pelvic organ prolapse can actually have a negative effect on your symptoms. There are many ways to help ease the mental burden of a prolapse diagnosis including seeing a mental health specialist, seeing a pelvic floor therapist, talking to family and friends (as many of them likely have it as well), using relaxation and stress relief strategies, and educating yourself.
⁃ A pelvic organ prolapse does NOT prevent you from being able to participate in your daily life including exercise. You can safely run, jump, weight lift, have intercourse, and have babies with a prolapse with the appropriate training and progression!
⁃ Pelvic floor therapists can help! Pelvic floor therapy has been shown to be effective in reversing anatomical prolapse by one grade and even more importantly, can help resolve any symptoms of prolapse! We can provide you with the education you need to feel confident living with prolapse and the training you need to return to ALL your activities safely and symptom-free!
If you are dealing with pelvic organ prolapse, take the first step toward living your full, symptom-free life today by scheduling your first appointment with Life Changes Physical Therapy!