Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- Did you know?
- Did you know that up to 50 percent of women who have a vaginal delivery will have some degree of Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)?
- POP is a common condition that can significantly impact a woman's physical and emotional well-being.
What is POP?
- The bulging or herniation of one or more of the pelvic organs into the wall of the vagina
- The pelvic organs include the uterus, bowel and bladder
- POP occurs when the muscles, ligaments and/or supporting tissues that hold these pelvic organs in the correct positions become weakened and stretched
What are the common symptoms of POP?
- A heavy dragging feeling in the vagina or lower back
- The sensation of a lump in the vagina or outside the vagina
- Urinary symptoms, such as slowed urinary stream, a feeling as though you have not completely emptied the bladder, the urgent need to wee and sometimes associated leakage, urinary leakage when you do activities such as cough, sneeze and laugh
- Bowel symptoms, such as constipation, difficulty emptying the bowel, the need to give support or press the vaginal wall to empty the bowel
- Pain with sexual intercourse
What are the common causes of POP?
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth (especially multiple vaginal deliveries)
- Obesity
- Chronic coughing
- Constipation and strain
- Heavy lifting
- Normal ageing processes and hormonal changes that occur due to Menopause
In many cases POP problems can be better managed or cured.
Pelvic health physiotherapists can play a vital role in addressing POP problems in women and is a first-line treatment. Pelvic health physiotherapists play a crucial role in improving POP function and enhancing overall quality of life.
What can you expect at Pelvic Care Physiotherapy?
- At Pelvic Care Physiotherapy, Amy Lipshutz is highly specialised and experienced in dealing with these problems. Amy uses a comprehensive, holistic approach to assess and treat these problems.
- At Pelvic Care Physiotherapy, you can expect Amy to take a thorough assessment to learn about your problems and goals.
The physiotherapy treatments for POP include:
- Pelvic floor muscle training
- Advice on healthy bladder and bowel habits
- Consideration of a pessary in conjunction with your medical health provider; a silicone device that is fitted into the vagina to provide support to the pelvic organs
- A general exercising program that respects your prolapse but still works towards achieving your fitness goals
- Support to live your best and fullest life with a prolapse!