Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Advanced Care For Pelvic Prolapse.
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Pelvic prolapse comes from weakness in the supporting structures of the pelvic region. Bladder, rectal or uterine tissue can bulge into the vagina. This is called pelvic prolapse, a condition successfully treated at
Atlantic Urogynecology in Suffolk, Virginia.
Today, primary-care physicians and general gynecologists often screen patients for pelvic prolapse. The new surgical subspecialty known as
urogynecology corrects prolapse and associated urinary incontinence. About one in every ten women will undergo surgery for pelvic prolapse by age 80. Different types of pelvic prolapse can affect different parts of the vagina or occur in combination:
- Cystocele/Urethrocele – These conditions result from the bladder or urethra protruding into the front wall of the vagina.
- Rectocele – This condition is caused by part of the rectum bulging into the back wall of the vagina. This can cause difficulty with defecation.
- Uterine Prolapse – The uterus slips into the vagina. Some women who have had hysterectomy have vaginal vault prolapse where the top of the vagina protrudes into the lower vagina.
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Causes Of Pelvic Prolapse.
The pelvic floor muscles and connecting tissue (fascia) act as ligaments to support the pelvic organs. When the muscles are weakened, the fascia and ligaments have to carry the weight. Eventually, they may stretch and fail, allowing pelvic organs to drop and press into the vaginal wall or protrude from the vagina. Women who have had multiple vaginal births are at greatest risk for pelvic prolapse, particularly after menopause. Other risk factors include connective tissue disorders and prior pelvic surgery.
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Symptoms Of Pelvic Prolapse.
Some women with mild prolapse may have no symptoms at all. Others may experience discomfort and many symptoms:
- Pressure & pain include feelings of pelvic pressure, leg fatigue & low back pain.
- Urinary symptoms include urgency, frequency, incomplete emptying and complete incontinence.
- Bowel symptoms include problems with defecation. Stool can become trapped in the rectum, causing constipation & pain.
- Sexual problems include irritated vaginal tissues, painful intercourse & mental stress.
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Treating Prolapse.
Women without symptoms or with very mild symptoms may not need treatment. They should avoid anything that might worsen their condition. Losing weight, avoiding heavy lifting and quitting smoking all help. For women experiencing major discomfort or impairment of normal function, surgery is a definitive way to relieve symptoms.
Dr. Walshe always puts his patients first and individualizes their care. If you have not responded well to other treatments, you may experience significant relief with his highly specialized personal care available at Atlantic Urogynecology. Ask Dr. Walshe about the safest, most effective pelvic prolapse care today .
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