Many people will ignore symptoms when they are afraid to find out what is going on with their body. It’s a common reaction to unknown issues, but it doesn’t make the problem go away. In fact, it can make it worse by waiting and then finding out the diagnosis later when treatment options are more limited. This is certainly true when it comes to the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse.
What Is POP?
Pelvic Organ Prolapse, or POP, is a kind of pelvic floor disorder. Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that act like a hammock to keep your pelvic organs in place. The pelvic organs include the bladder, rectum. uterus, vagina, urethra, and small bowel.
Sometimes after giving birth and for other reasons, those muscles become weakened and prolapse develops, which refers to the organs dropping down out of place. Many times they press against the vagina.
The pelvic floor has four functions when it is functioning correctly:
- Supports the badder, bowel, rectum, and sexual and reproductive organs
- Allows you to move with strength and flexibility
- Controls the sphincter muscles of the anus and bladder
- Maintains healthy sexual function
What Causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Some common causes of pelvic organ prolapse include:
- Vaginal childbirth
- Obesity
- Heavy lifting
- Getting older
- Straining during bowel movements
- Menopause
- Smoking
- Family history
- Chronic coughing
What Are Symptoms of POP?
Watch for a feeling of fullness, pelvic pressure, or pain. You may feel like you have a bulge of tissue at the opening of the vagina or a lump.
You may have urinary or bowel changes. Urinary changes can include peeing more frequently, urgency, or not being able to urinate. Bowel changes can include not being able to empty your stool completely.
In addition, you may have pain with sexual intercourse, vaginal bleeding or constipation.
It is difficult to discuss these kinds of issues, but you shouldn’t ignore them. Treatments are available, especially when the symptoms are at their mild stage.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment in Reston, VA
There are many options and our gynecologists can help you find the best choice for you.
There are both non-invasive and surgical treatments available which include:
- Behavioral treatments
- Mechanical treatments
- Surgical intervention
Don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact Virginia Women’s Health Associates at (703) 435-2555 for an evaluation, diagnosis, and your treatment options.
Sources: Prolapse: Don’t ignore the signs of prolapse seek help (health.gov.au)
Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment (webmd.com)