Pelvic organ prolapse means that a pelvic organ—such as your bladder—has moved from its normal position and is pressing against your vagina. This can happen when the muscles and tissues that hold your pelvic organs in place get weak or damaged.
Pelvic organ prolapse is common. It isn't usually a big health problem, but it can be uncomfortable or painful. It can be treated if it bothers you. And it may get better with time.
More than one pelvic organ can prolapse at the same time. Organs that can be involved include the:
- Bladder
- Urethra
- Uterus
- Vagina
- Small bowel
- Rectum
What are the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse?
You may not have any symptoms. Or pressure on your vagina may cause discomfort or problems with your pelvic organs. Symptoms may include:
- Feeling pressure or fullness in your lower belly.
- Feeling as if something is falling out of your vagina.
- Feeling a pull or a stretch in the groin area or a low backache.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Urinary problems—for example, you may release urine without meaning to (incontinence), or you may have a frequent or urgent need to urinate.
- Problems with bowel movements. You may be constipated or need to support the back (posterior) of the vaginal wall to have a bowel movement.
- Symptoms are worse when you stand, jump, or lift. They usually are relieved if you lie down.
What causes pelvic organ prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues that hold your pelvic organs in place get weak or damaged. It is often linked to pregnancy and childbirth. During pregnancy and vaginal delivery, pelvic muscles can get stretched and injured. If the muscles don't recover, they can't support your pelvic organs as well.
Anything that puts pressure on your belly can also increase your risk for pelvic organ prolapse. Things that can put pressure on your belly include obesity, frequent constipation, a long-lasting (chronic) cough, and frequent heavy lifting.
Pelvic organ prolapse can occur when you're young, but it's more likely to happen as you get older and it's more common after menopause. It also tends to run in families.
How is pelvic organ prolapse treated?
Decisions about treating pelvic organ prolapse are based on which organs have prolapsed and how bad your symptoms are. You may not need or want treatment.
If your symptoms are mild, you may be able to relieve them at home.
- Try Kegel exercises. These can make your pelvic muscles stronger.
- Reach and stay at a healthy weight.
- Avoid lifting heavy things. This can put stress on your pelvic muscles.
If these changes don't help, you can ask your doctor to fit you with a pessary. It's a removable device that you can put in your vagina to support areas of prolapse.
Surgery may be an option if symptoms don't get better with other treatments or if you prefer surgery over other treatments. But you may want to delay surgery if you plan to get pregnant in the future. The strain of childbirth could cause the prolapse to come back.