Pelvic Floor Therapy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)
- Gaia Women's PT and Wellness
- Jun 9
- 4 min read
While pelvic organ prolapse may be a term familiar to many women, it may not always be fully understood. Women often describe prolapse as feeling like something is “bulging” or “falling out." Given that description, it's understandable that this condition can be anxiety-inducing for many. The good news is that effective treatment options exist to manage these symptoms. Getting support as soon as symptoms appear is the first step to regaining control over your pelvic health.
Understanding the Anatomy
So what exactly is happening in your body when you experience pelvic organ prolapse?
The pelvic organs are supported by a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue. Pregnancy and childbirth, hormonal changes, and chronic straining can weaken or stretch this support system. This can cause the pelvic organs including the bladder, uterus, or rectum to descend or prolapse into the vaginal canal.
Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
These changes in pelvic floor anatomy and organ position can disrupt normal pelvic floor dynamics. This disruption may affect urinary, bowel, and sexual function.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. Women may experience:
A sensation of pelvic pressure or fullness, often described as feeling like something is putting pressure downwards
Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse
Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels
Urinary or fecal incontinence
Visible bulging or protrusion in the vaginal area.
Risk Factors of Developing Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Risk factos for developing POP may include:
1) repeated vaginal deliveries
2) delivieries of babies of larger size
3) deliveries needing instuments assistance (forcepts, vacuume)
4) chronic constipation
5) Aging and menopause (tissue changes, loss of muscle mass)
6) Obesity
7) Family history
Diagnosis and Treatment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
For women who suspect their symptoms may be pointing towards pelvic organ prolapse, early intervention can be crucial. A physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor therapy can put you on the path to symptom relief.
Diagnosing Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse is typically diagnosed by a pelvic physical therapist through a comprehensive assessment. This may include:
Medical History: A detailed discussion of symptoms, medical history, and previous pregnancies or childbirth experiences.
Pelvic Floor Assessment: An internal exam and visual observation to assess the extent and severity of prolapse, and assess muscle strength and coordination.
Functional Assessment: Evaluation of daily activities such as walking, sitting, and lifting.
Treatment Options for Pelvic Organ Prolpase
In the past, many women have been referred for surgical intervention for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. Fortunately, there is growing awareness that conservative treatments may postpone or eliminate the need for surgery completely.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Research has shown that pelvic physical therapy is an effective treatment for mild to moderate prolapse. By addressing muscle weakness, improving pelvic floor function, and educating women about how to manage their condition, pelvic PT plays a crucial role in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.
Treatment may include:
Pelvic Floor Exercises: Customized exercises to strengthen and coordinate the pelvic floor muscles, providing better support for the organs.
Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as massage, stretching, or myofascial realase to improve muscle flexibility and reduce tension in other parts of the body contributing to the pelvic floor dysfunction.
Lifestyle Modifications: Guidance on healthy habits and behaviors to reduce symptoms and prevent further prolapse, such as proper lifting techniques and bladder management strategies.
Vaginal Pessaries
Pessaries are a non-surgical option for managing pelvic organ prolapse. These small, removable devices are inserted into the vagina to provide support for the prolapsed organs. This helps to alleviate symptoms such as pelvic pressure or discomfort. Pessaries come in different shapes and sizes and can be custom fitted by a healthcare provider. Think of pessaries like an orthotic for your pelvis.
Medications
In some cases, medications may be prescribed for management of symptoms such as urinary incontinence or constipation. Additionally, hormonal intervention such as estrogen therapy may be recommended for peri- or post-menopausal women to improve the strength and elasticity of the vaginal tissues.
Surgical Intervention
For some severe cases of pelvic organ prolapse that cannot be effectively treated with conservative measures, surgery may be necessary to repair the prolapse and provide long-term support for the organs. There are different surgical procedures available, including vaginal mesh procedures, colpocleisis, and sacrocolpopexy. Even if surgery is the right answer for you, pelvic floor therapy before and after surgical intervention improves outcomes and healing.
Why seek care at Gaia Women's PT for Pelvic Organ Prolpase
Pelvic organ prolapse can have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life, but effective treatment options are available. By recognizing the signs and symptoms, seeking early diagnosis, and exploring appropriate treatment options, women can regain control over their pelvic health and live life to the fullest. Pelvic physical therapy offers a safe and effective approach to managing pelvic organ prolapse, providing women with the tools they need to thrive.
Here at Gaia we specialize in taking care of women and have a passion for taking these emotional diagnoses seriously, getting you symptom resolution and working with collaborative team when necessary. You can read more about our services HERE.
