What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse is a disorder where the pelvic floor organs descend from their place. Pelvic floor organs include bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowels, and rectum. Cystocele (prolapse of the bladder into the vagina), Urethrocele (prolapse of the urethra), Uterine prolapse, Vaginal vault prolapse, Enterocele (small bowels prolapse) and Rectocele (rectum prolapse) are different types of pelvic organ prolapse.
What causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Increased stress on abdomen leads to pelvic organ prolapse. Some of the causes are:
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- A long-term cough
- Pelvic organ cancers
- Removal of uterus
- Obesity
- Constipation
Genetic makeup also plays a role in pelvic organ prolapse.
What are the symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse depend on the organ that is drooping:
- The feeling of fullness in the pelvic area
- Spotting or bleeding
- Feeling that something is coming out of the vagina
- Pain during intercourse
- Persistent urge to urinate
- Leakage of urine
- Lower back pain
- Constipation
How is Pelvic Organ Prolapse diagnosed?
Tests that are run to diagnose pelvic organ prolapse are:
- CT scan of the pelvis
- Ultrasound of pelvis
- MRI of pelvis
- Urinary tract X-ray
What are the treatments of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Treatment of pelvic organ prolapse depends on the severity of the condition.
Mechanical treatments
Provide support to the drooping organs by inserting a pessary into the vagina
Surgical treatment
Repair or remove the drooping organs
Behavioural treatment
Strengthening pelvic floor muscles through physical exercises
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