Pelvic Organ Prolapse

What is pelvic organ prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition when the muscles and ligaments supporting female pelvic organs weaken and cause pelvic organs including the bladder, uterus and the small or large bowel to drop lower in the pelvis, creating a bulge in the vagina, uterus, rectum or any combination of the above.

What are the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse?

Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse may include:

• Constant feeling of heaviness or pressure in pelvis
• Sensation or seeing of bulge or protrusion
• Urinary and/or bowel incontinence or feeling of incomplete emptying
• Painful intercourse

What are the risk factors and causes?

Factors that may increase the risk of pelvic organs prolapse include but not limited to:

• Vaginal delivery/birth
• Hysterectomy or previous gynaecology surgeries
• Ageing
• Connective tissue abnormalities
• Chronic straining/ constipation
• Family history of prolapse
• Occupations which entail heavy lifting
• Poor or incorrect exercise technique
• Excess weight