Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment in Lafayette, LA
What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition when one or more pelvic organs drop from their position. Pelvic organ prolapse is most commonly seen during pregnancy or after childbirth, however there may be other causes.
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more pelvic organs descend into or press against the vaginal wall due to weakened pelvic floor support. Symptoms may include pelvic pressure, a feeling of fullness, urinary difficulties, or a bulge in the vaginal area. Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and your individual needs. The board certified urologists at Southern Urology provide evaluations to help determine an appropriate treatment plan. For more information, contact our urology clinic at (337) 233 6665 and schedule an appointment today!
Which Organs are Impacted by Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Weakened muscles in your pelvis may affect the following organs:
- Vagina
- Uterus
- Bladder
- Rectum
What Happens with Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues that support the pelvic organs weaken, causing one or more organs to drop or press into the walls of the vagina.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse can vary in severity:
- With mild cases of POP, your organs may drop.
- In more severe cases, they may extend outside your vagina and cause a bulge.
What are the Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Several factors can contribute to the development of pelvic organ prolapse, including: 1
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth
- Aging
- Obesity
- Chronic coughing
- Genetics
What are the Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
If you have weakened muscles in the pelvis area, you may experience: 2
- Fullness in the pelvic area
- Feeling of heaviness
- A bulge or lump protruding from the vagina
- Pelvic pain
- Discomfort
- Lower back pain
- Urinary problems
- Bowel issues
- Issues or pain during sex
Diagnosing Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse is common, but it can go undiagnosed. Even though it affects millions of women worldwide, many may feel uncomfortable discussing it due to its intimate nature. However, raising awareness and understanding of POP is crucial for early detection and effective management.
Your OB/GYN may request:
- A bladder function test
- An internal pelvic exam
- Feeling for any lumps in the pelvic area
- Imaging tests
Treatment for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Treatment for pelvic organ prolapse depends on several factors, including the severity of the prolapse, your age, overall health, and whether you plan to have children in the future.
Treatment options may include: 3
Lifestyle modifications
Making changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding heavy lifting can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further prolapse.
Pelvic floor exercises
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises such as Kegels can improve support for the pelvic organs and reduce symptoms of prolapse.
Pessaries
A pessary is a device inserted into the vagina. The pessary provides support for the pelvic organs and relieve symptoms of prolapse.
Surgery
In severe cases of pelvic organ prolapse, surgery may be necessary to repair the weakened tissues and provide support for the pelvic organs. Surgical options range from minimally invasive procedures to more extensive surgeries, depending on the individual case.
Left untreated, your prolapse and your symptoms can worsen.
Schedule an Appointment for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment in Lafayette, LA
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment for pelvic organ prolapse treatment in Lafayette, LA, contact Southern Urology at (337) 233 6665.