Prolapse

Dignity Health Women's Services of Greater Sacramento provides world-class care for pelvic pain treatment. We use minimally invasive techniques when surgery is required, and discuss the best course of treatment for each individual woman.

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the tissue and muscles of the pelvic floor no longer support the pelvic organs. The pelvic organs then "drop" (prolapse) from their normal position. The pelvic organs include:

 

  • Vagina

  • Cervix

  • Uterus

  • Bladder

  • Urethra

  • Rectum

This may occur when the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor are torn and stretched due to labor, childbirth or weakening with age. Obesity, genetic predisposition and connective tissue disorder are also risk factors. Symptoms include:

 

  • Protruding tissue or organs to or past the vaginal opening

  • Urinary incontinence

  • Sexual difficulties

Prolapse Treatment Options

Once a diagnosis of POP is made, your doctor will discuss nonsurgical and surgical treatment options with you. Nonsurgical options include exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor (Kegel Exercises) or using a pessary, which is a removable device that is inserted into the vagina to support the prolapsed organs.

 

POP does not always require surgical treatment, but if you have significant pain or discomfort, your doctor may recommend surgery. Abdominal or vaginal surgery can help repair the tissue around the vagina, restoring the normal position of the vagina or closing the opening to the vagina with or without a hysterectomy.

 

Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment option you choose.

You’ve told your BFF. Now talk to a GYN.

You’re a doer. So when it comes to changes in your own body, why is it that you put it off? It’s time to take action and talk to a professional (no offense to your friends)! Find a doctor near you.