How Can a Urogynecologist Help with Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse is a common disorder in women. The incidence increases after childbearing and as women increase in age. The lifetime risk of surgical repair for pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence is about 11% (one in every 10 women).
What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Prolapse is a condition where the bladder, uterus, vaginal wall or rectum is falling because the vaginal walls and pelvic support structures are stretched due to age, genetics, childbirth or hormonal changes. It is a common condition, affecting about 30% of women.
The bladder and rectum begin to travel down toward the vaginal opening, and sometimes even protrude out of the vagina. Patients will feel pressure or a bulge, or they might notice a “ball” when they are bathing. Some women also have problems with the function of the bladder and rectum, such as constipation or difficulty emptying the bladder. Occasionally there is discomfort with intercourse.
The bladder and rectum begin to travel down toward the vaginal opening, and sometimes even protrude out of the vagina. Patients will feel pressure or a bulge, or they might notice a “ball” when they are bathing. Some women also have problems with the function of the bladder and rectum, such as constipation or difficulty emptying the bladder. Occasionally there is discomfort with intercourse.
Conditions that may cause Pelvic Organ Prolapse:
- Pregnancy and Childbirth
- Aging and Menopause
- Heavy Lifting
- Genetics
- Certain Health Conditions: Health problems that involve repeated straining, such as obesity, chronic cough, and constipation, can injure the pelvic floor over time.
How is Pelvic Organ Prolapse treated?
- Surgical Options
- Non-Surgical Option
We have many effective surgical options to address pelvic organ prolapse. Dr. Dabbous has spent his career offering optimal treatment options for his patients. Non-surgical and surgical treatment options are carefully evaluated for each patient.
1. Do Nothing (live with your condition). It is very rare for pelvic organ prolapse to result in a medical condition that threatens your health. The main reason to pursue any sort of treatment is because it is bothering you in one way or another.
2. Pessary. This is a silicone rubber device placed in the vagina to support the prolapse. Obtaining a good fit may require trial of several sized pessaries. It works best if you learn to remove and insert it yourself, but it can be cared for in our office.