What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a disorder in which one of the organs in the pelvic floor falls out of its normal position. The female pelvic floor consists of the bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowel, and rectum. All of these organs are supported by muscles, ligaments, and fibers that attach to the bony anatomy of the pelvis.
The type of prolapse you may experience is based on the organ that prolapses. POP types include:
- Cystocele: A prolapse of the bladder into the vagina (most common).
- Enterocele: A prolapse of the small bowel.
- Rectocele: A prolapse of the rectum.
- Uterine Prolapse: A prolapse of the uterus.
- Vaginal Vault Prolapse: a prolapse of the vagina.
What Are the Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
The most common signs and symptoms of POP include:
- Urinary incontinence or retention (cystocele).
- Feelings of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area.
- A feeling that something is falling out of the vagina.
- Painful intercourse
- Lower back aches and pains (uterine prolapse).
- Spotting or bleeding from the vagina.
- Constipation or using manual pressure to help evacuate stool from the rectum (rectocele).
What Are the Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
POP can result from anything that puts increased pressure upon the abdomen. This may include:
- Pregnancy and labor.
- Hysterectomy
- Obesity
- Respiratory problems with a chronic, long-term cough.
- Chronic constipation.
Genetics can also play a role in POP. You may be at risk if your connective tissues are weaker than average.
How Is POP Treated?
If you are suffering from any of the symptoms associated with POP, schedule an appointment at Women’s Center for Pelvic Wellness in Pasadena. Drs. Kimble and Kimble will identify the problem and create a treatment plan. While pelvic surgery is often one course of action, we offer a number of other treatment options to manage your condition as well.
Treatment for Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Pasadena, CA
At Women’s Center for Pelvic Wellness, expert urogynecologists, Dr. Alex May Kimble and Dr. David Kimble can help determine a treatment plan for Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Call the office at (626) 535-0832 or book an appointment using the form below, and get on the road to feeling better today.