Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse affects many women. It can be uncomfortable and upsetting, but there’s no need to suffer in silence. Our experts in female pelvic medicine have treatments that can help you feel normal again.
What is pelvic organ prolapse?
The muscles and tissues in your pelvic region support your pelvic organs, which include the bladder, cervix, rectum and uterus. If these muscles are weak or damaged, one or more of these pelvic organs can press on the vagina or drop out of the opening of the vagina.
Pelvic organ prolapse is a type of pelvic floor disorder.
Causes of pelvic organ prolapse
Causes of pelvic organ prolapse may include:
- Vaginal childbirth.
- Hormonal changes from menopause.
- Aging.
How we diagnose pelvic organ prolapse
We use a complete medical history and pelvic exam to diagnose prolapse. If prolapse is causing incontinence (urine leakage), we may use a urodynamic test. This test measures how well the body stores and releases urine.
How we treat prolapse
We usually try non-surgical treatments first, depending on the severity of your condition. Your treatment options may include:
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can strengthen pelvic floor muscles and relieve symptoms of mild or moderate pelvic organ prolapse.
Pessary
The doctor inserts this small device into the vagina. The device supports the pelvic organs. We fit the pessary for your body in the same way as a diaphragm.
Surgery for pelvic organ prolapse
We offer numerous surgery options for pelvic organ prolapse. Our options include traditional abdominal surgery and less-invasive procedures that may not be found at other hospitals. We perform surgeries through the vagina or abdomen, depending on your condition.
Laparoscopic or robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy: This surgery repairs pelvic organ prolapse. It is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a few small incisions. The doctor inserts a small camera and laparoscopic or robotic-controlled tools to put organs back in place. A mesh is then inserted to keep the organs from falling again.
Native tissue reconstruction surgery: This surgery uses your own (native) tissues and muscles to repair the pelvic floor. Organs are then put back in their original place. We perform this surgery through the vagina or abdomen, depending on your particular condition. We often use minimally invasive surgical procedures for a shorter recovery time.
Colpocleisis: This surgery to close the vaginal opening may be an option for women who no longer wish to have vaginal intercourse.
Make an appointment
Find out more about treatments for pelvic organ prolapse. To make an appointment, call 859-323-0005.
