WHAT IS PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE?

Pelvic Organ Prolapse occurs when the tissue and muscles of the pelvic floor no longer support the pelvic organs resulting in the drop (prolapse) of the pelvic organs from their normal position. The bladder is the most commonly involved organ, but the uterus or rectum can also prolapse.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

A bulge protruding from your vagina, the inability to empty your bladder, constipation and painful sex could all be signs of Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Your Esse Health Urologist may perform a physical exam that includes a bladder function test (where your bladder is pushed back into position, then checked for leakage). Your doctor may also do a pelvic floor strength test (where your doctor will gently push on the muscles externally and internally to determine muscle resistance). For more complicated cases, your doctor may request diagnostic imaging utilizing high-frequency sound waves (Ultrasound) or an MRI that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to provide a detailed image of the pelvic floor.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?

Non-surgical treatments include performing pelvic floor exercises to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles or the use of a pessary (a silicone device inserted into the vagina that can help support the prolapsed organ). If necessary, surgery to repair a prolapse can be done utilizing a surgical mesh. For uterine prolapse, a hysterectomy may be an option. Your Esse Health Urologist can suggest what treatment option to try based on the severity of the prolapse.