Hours

423-472-3201

Schedule

Patient Info

Patient Portal

Patient Referral

Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Overview

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues in the pelvic cavity become too weak to support the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or colon. This weakness causes the organs to drop, putting pressure on the vagina and leading to prolapse or even protrusion. While not dangerous, pelvic organ prolapse can be painful and significantly impact quality of life.

General Information

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the support structures of the pelvic cavity weaken, causing one or more of the pelvic organs to drop from their normal position. This can put pressure on the vagina and lead to discomfort, pain, and sometimes visible protrusion of the organs.

Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse:

  • A feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area
  • Visible bulge in the vagina
  • Difficulty urinating or having bowel movements
  • Lower back pain
  • Painful intercourse

Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse:

  • Childbirth: The strain of childbirth can weaken pelvic muscles and tissues.
  • Aging: Muscle and tissue strength decrease with age.
  • Heavy lifting: Repeated heavy lifting can strain the pelvic floor.
  • Chronic coughing: Persistent coughing can put pressure on pelvic muscles.
  • Obesity: Excess weight increases pressure on the pelvic floor.

Diagnosis

To diagnose pelvic organ prolapse, your doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination including a thorough pelvic exam.

Treatment

Treatment for pelvic organ prolapse depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

Lifestyle Changes

  • Weight loss to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
  • Avoiding heavy lifting and straining.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

  • Kegel Exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help manage symptoms. Your urologist can guide you on how to perform these exercises correctly for the best results.

Pessary

  • A device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs and reduce prolapse symptoms.

Surgical Options

  • Cystocele Repair (anterior colporrhaphy): A minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the support of the bladder with several layers of suture. This is done under anesthesia at the hospital.

Robotic Sacrocolpopexy

  • A minimally invasive robotic procedure to fix pelvic organ prolapse by using synthetic mesh to secure the top and back of the vagina to the sacrum. This corrects the abnormal descent of the pelvic organs.

Schedule an Appointment

or call us at (423) 472 3201

Schedule