Many people will ignore symptoms when they are afraid to find out what is going on with their bodies. It’s a common reaction to unknown issues, and often prevalent in mild forms. Frequently, waiting causes the issue to worsen and can limit treatment options. This is certainly true when it comes to the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. It can be a very embarrassing problem and tough to talk about.
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 and rectum, uterus, vagina, urethra, and small bowel.
Sometimes after giving birth and for other reasons, the pelvic muscles and connective tissue becomes weakened and prolapse develops. The organs then drop from the normal positions and protrude out of the vaginal opening. This can take years or even decades to appear.
The pelvic floor has four functions when it is functioning correctly:
- Supports the bladder, 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/Chronic constipation
- Menopause
- Smoking
- Family history
- Chronic coughing
What Are the Symptoms of POP?
Watch for a feeling of fullness, pelvic pressure, or pain. You may feel like or see a bulge of tissue at the opening of the vagina.
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. Speak with an experienced urologist like Dr. Aubert. Treatments are available, especially when the symptoms are at their mild stage.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment in Brentwood, TN
There are many options and Dr. Aubert 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 Dr. Howard Aubert at (615) 988-8103 for an evaluation, diagnosis, and 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)