Women's Health: Pelvic Organ Prolapse - Oklahoma Physical Therapy

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and the tissues around the uterus, bladder, and the rectum (known as the pelvic organs) become weak. One or more of the pelvic organs may press into the vaginal walls, leading to pain, irritation, and in some cases urinary or fecal incontinence.

Pelvic organ prolapse is less common than other pelvic-floor-related conditions. It affects up to 3% of US women. The condition is treatable, but many women dealing with it are uncomfortable about discussing possible solutions with healthcare professionals.  

Here at Oklahoma Physical Therapy, our specialists focus on helping women to understand that they don’t have to live with pelvic organ prolapse for the rest of their lives. We use a combination of techniques to provide a lasting solution for all our patients.

Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

The symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse include:

• A bulge in the vagina (can be felt or seen)
• Uncomfortable pressure in the pelvic region during sex or physical activity
• Aching and discomfort in the pelvis which can worsen with standing or coughing
• Urinary incontinence and bowel movement challenges

Some common causes of pelvic organ prolapse include:

• Vaginal birth—especially to babies weighing more than 8.3 pounds.
• Prolonged pressure on the abdominal region (from coughing, straining or obesity).
• Menopausal changes
• Genetic disposition towards the condition

Types of pelvic organ prolapse

Urethrocele
Uterine prolapse
Vaginal vault prolapse
Enterocele
Rectocele
Cystocele

Physical therapy provides long-term relief from the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse by teaching you exercises that can strengthen your core and pelvic floor muscles to help support the pelvic organs and alleviate symptoms of incontinence. You may need to learn breathing techniques, proper posture, and how to go about your typical daily activities without worsening your condition. 

Our physical therapists here at Oklahoma Physical Therapy perfectly understand how to manage pelvic organ prolapse with a unique treatment program. We will reduce the severity of the symptoms first, and then work towards the complete reversal of the condition. Contact us today to begin your bespoke treatment.