What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)?
The Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs—bladder, uterus, rectum, or vaginal vault—displace from their normal position and press against the vagina. It also occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues weaken or get overstretched.
Who is at the Highest Risk?
Women with several vaginal deliveries, or who are postmenopausal, with high body mass index, or who suffer from chronic conditions that put strain on the pelvic area, such as chronic cough or constipation, have a greater risk for POP.
What are the Common Signs of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis or vagina
- Prolapse of tissue through the vagina
- Urinary incontinence or difficulty in urinating
- Problems with bowel movement, such as constipation or incomplete emptying
- Painful intercourse
- Lower back pain
What Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
- Childbirth trauma – Especially after multiple or complicated vaginal deliveries
- Ageing and menopause – Decreased estrogen weakens tissues
- Heavy lifting and obesity – Increases pressure on pelvic organs
- Chronic cough or constipation – Causing a constant strain on pelvic support
- Genetic – Family history can increase risk
How do we diagnose pelvic organ prolapse?
In diagnosing POP, a patient's history and a physical pelvic examination happen in unison. During the medical checkups/examination, the doctor may ask the patient to bear down to see the prolapse.
Are there any specific tests for POP?
- Pelvic examination – The mainstay of diagnosis
- Urodynamic testing – Evaluates bladder function
- MRI or Ultrasound – In complicated cases, for organ displacement evaluation
- Cystoscopy or Colonoscopy – If bladder or bowel involvement is suspected
What treatment options are available for pelvic organ prolapse?
The treatment of pelvic organ prolapse will depend on the severity and symptomatology:-
1. Conservative Treatment
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegel’s) to strengthen muscles
- Pessary device – A silicone ring inserted into the vagina to support organs
- Lifestyle changes – Weight management, avoiding heavy lifting, treating constipation
2. Remedies
- Hormonal therapy – Estrogen treatment in postmenopausal women to improve tissue tone
3. Surgical Therapies
- Reconstructive surgery – Repairing and supporting prolapsed organs with native tissue or mesh
- Hysterectomy – For uterine prolapse
- Minimally invasive surgery – Laparoscopic or robotic-assisted procedures for faster recovery
When does performing surgery become essential?
Surgical intervention is the only option if severe symptoms affect routine life or conventional treatment alternatives fail.
What is the long-term prognosis for women affected with POP?
With proper management, many women obtain significant relief. Through conservative procedures, mild to moderate issues get successfully treated, as the success rate for surgical repair remains relatively high. However, failure and recurrence are sometimes possibilities, primarily when persistent underlying risk factors exist.
Can we prevent prolapse?
Not all prolapse cases are preventable, but the risk of developing one is easy to check through:-
- Perform regular pelvic floor exercises
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Prevent or manage chronic cough and constipation
- Seek medical care after childbirth and menopause to support pelvic health
Living With
How do women manage day-to-day with a POP?
- Use a pessary as recommended by your doctor
- Staying moderately active, avoiding any high-impact physical activities
- Increasing fibre in the diet to help with constipation
- Being aware of urinary or bowel habits and reporting changes to your doctor
- Consider going to support groups or pelvic floor therapy if appropriate
Will I be able to live an everyday life with pelvic organ prolapse?
Yes - with appropriate management, many women live normally and actively, as the earlier the symptoms are identified and treated, the better the outcome.
Why Choose Tender Palm Hospital for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Treatment in Lucknow, India?
Tender Palm Hospital has the most experienced team of Urologists and diagnostics with the latest and International standard infection control measures in Lucknow, India. The Urology team has decades of experience in successfully treating Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) in Lucknow, India.
To Seek an Expert Consultation for Pelvic Organ Prolapse treatment in Lucknow, India:
Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com
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