Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition that affects many women, causing discomfort and a range of symptoms that can impact daily life. If you are experiencing symptoms of discomfort associated with POP then you can consult with a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist to provide you with appropriate advice to manage and improve your symptoms.
In this blog post,we will delve into the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse to help you better understand this condition and how we can help.
What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
POP occurs when the bladder, bowel, or uterus protrudes into the vaginal canal, leading to symptoms such as vaginal heaviness, a sensation of a bulge or lump within the vagina, difficulties with bowel movements or bladder emptying, constipation, and discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Pelvic organ prolapse is often associated with the follow factors such as;
Vaginal childbirth/ multiple vaginal deliveries
Delivering large babies (greater than 4kg)
Genetic predisposition
Hormonal changes during menopause
Chronic constipation
Obesity
Persistent coughing
Heavy lifting
Previous gynaecological surgeries
Assessment Process
Katie will take a thorough a personalised approach to assessing pelvic organ prolapse. In addition to her Post Graduate Masters, Katie has also completed a Graduate Certificate in the management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse, including the assessment and management of pessaries. This thorough training background has equipped Katie to be able to conduct meticulous assessment, which includes gathering a detailed medical history, screening for underlying factors contributing to the condition, setting collaborative treatment goals, and performing a comprehensive evaluation of pelvic floor muscle function.
Treatment Options
Based on the assessment findings, we develop a customised treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs. Treatment options may include pelvic floor muscle training, lifestyle modifications, bladder or bowel habit retraining, education on proper lifting techniques and exercise modifications and if appropriate the use of a vaginal pessary. In some cases there may a need to involve other specialities such as gynaecology or I will work closely with your GP to arrange further referral.
Empowerment to live your life to its full potential
Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. However, with the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage symptoms effectively and improve overall well-being. If you are experiencing symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Katie Stan-Bishop Physiotherapy.
