Definition

Pelvic organ prolapse is a medical condition that occurs when a woman’s pelvic organ (including, uterus, rectum, or bladder) prolapses or drops from its original position and gets pushed/stretched against the vaginal walls. Such a condition takes place when the muscles holding the pelvic organs get torn or weak at the time of a surgery or childbirth.

Even though vaginal prolapse is not considered as a significant health problem, it may cause pain or discomfort that may get worse with time. Some of the organs that get affected during pelvic prolapse include:

• Vagina
• Bladder
• Uterus
• Rectum
• Urethra

Pelvic Prolapse – Causes

At the time of childbirth, a baby may get stretched. This, in turn, may tear the pelvic floor muscles and other supporting tissues. In fact, various studies have suggested that – the more number of vaginal births a woman have, the greater are the chances of being affected by the prolapse.

In addition to childbirth, other factors that may cause prolapse include:

(i) Chronic cough due to uncontrolled asthma or chain smoking

(ii) Heavy lifting, such as lifting of heavy washing baskets, children, or grocery bags

(iii) Chronic Constipation causing a strain on the empty bowel

Symptoms of Pelvic Prolapse

• Acute sensation in the vagina
• Formation of lump/s in the vagina
• A Visible lump protruding out of vagina
• Painful intercourse and/or other sexual problems
• Recurring infections in the urinary tract
• Difficult bowel movement

Prolapse Treatment – Without Surgery

Pelvic prolapse condition may be improved in some women without surgery. A recent study has indicated that a regular three to four months of pelvic floor muscle exercise may reduce the severity of the disease. In this regard, some of the proven methods to reverse prolapse include:

Exercise: Performing at least three sets of the pelvic floor exercises on a regular basis can help a woman take a control of her body, without any adverse side effects. In fact, it is also a scientifically proven non-surgical prolapse treatment method.

The Knack Exercise: This technique may reduce the prolapse strain

Lifestyle Changes: Making modifications in your lifestyle factors can radically improve prolapse problems

Additional strategies: Other technique that may prove fruitful for curing this medical condition includes:

• Losing weight (mainly abdominal fat)
• Managing bowels
• Correcting inadequate posture
• Managing chronic chest disorders causing persistent coughing
• Modifying the undesirable lifestyle
• Eating healthy and staying fit