What is Vaginal Prolapse?
Vaginal prolapse happens when the muscles and tissues that support the vagina become weak, causing the vagina to move down from its usual place. This can make the vaginal walls or the top of the vagina sag, leading to a feeling of pressure or a bulge inside.
The pelvic floor muscles support the vagina, working like a hammock to hold the pelvic organs in place. If these muscles get weaker over time, the vagina can move downward, which is called prolapse.
What does vaginal prolapse mean in simple terms?
Simply put, vaginal prolapse means the muscles holding up the vagina are too weak, so the vagina starts to sag or drop. This can cause discomfort and make daily activities like walking, urinating, or having sex harder.
Are there different types of vaginal or pelvic organ prolapse?
There are several types of prolapse, based on which pelvic organ has moved out of place. These include:
- Vaginal (apical) prolapse: The top of the vagina drops down, often after a hysterectomy.
- Uterine prolapse: The uterus slips down into the vagina.
- Cystocele: The bladder bulges into the front wall of the vagina.
- Urethrocele: The urethra (urinary tube) prolapses into the vagina.
- Rectocele: The rectum bulges into the back wall of the vagina.
- Enterocele: The small intestine pushes down on the vagina. Some people can have more than one type of prolapse at once.
How common is vaginal prolapse?
Vaginal prolapse is common, especially in women who have given birth vaginally. Many women have some level of pelvic organ prolapse at some point, especially after menopause.
How will I know if I have vaginal prolapse?
In the early stages, some women do not notice any symptoms, while others may just feel something is off. Doctors often find vaginal prolapse during a regular gynecological exam.
What are the common symptoms of vaginal prolapse?
The common symptoms can be mild or severe and may include:
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis
- A bulge or lump inside or outside the vagina
- A feeling that something is coming out of the vagina
- Lower back pain
- Difficulty urinating or having a bowel movement
- Urinary incontinence or frequent urinary tract infections
- Discomfort or pain during sex
- Difficulty using tampons
What does vaginal prolapse feel like?
Many women say it feels like sitting on a ball or having something inside the vagina. Mild cases may have no symptoms. Symptoms often get worse after standing for a long time or later in the day.
Why does vaginal prolapse occur?
Vaginal prolapse happens when the pelvic floor muscles become weak. Common reasons for this include:
- Vaginal delivery, especially multiple deliveries
- Menopause and low estrogen levels
- increasing age
- Previous pelvic surgery, such as a hysterectomy
- Lifting heavy objects or physical strain
- Chronic cough or constipation
- Being overweight
- Family history of weak pelvic muscles
At what age can vaginal prolapse occur?
Vaginal prolapse happens most often in women over 50, especially after menopause. Still, it can happen at any age, especially after childbirth or pelvic surgery.
How is vaginal prolapse diagnosed?
A gynecologist checks for vaginal prolapse by doing a pelvic exam and asking about your symptoms, childbirth history, and any past surgeries. Sometimes, tests like ultrasound or MRI are used to look at other pelvic organs.
How is vaginal prolapse treated?
Treatment depends on how serious the prolapse is and how much it affects your daily life.
Non-surgical treatments include:
- Pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises: These strengthen the pelvic muscles.
- Vaginal pessary: A small device inserted into the vagina to support the organs.
- Lifestyle changes: Weight management, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating constipation.
In more severe cases, surgical treatment may be recommended:
- Procedures that lift and support the vagina
- Minimally invasive surgery using laparoscopy
- In some cases, closing the vagina (for women who do not wish to have sexual intercourse)
Your doctor will help you choose the best option based on your age, health, and future plans.
What happens if vaginal prolapse is left untreated? If left untreated, vaginal prolapse can worsen over time. This can lead to pain, sores, infections, urinary problems, and difficulty with daily activities. Early detection helps prevent complications.
Can vaginal prolapse return after treatment?
Yes, vaginal prolapse can recur, especially if the pelvic muscles weaken again. However, many treatments are very effective, and following your doctor's advice can reduce the risk of recurrence.
Can vaginal prolapse be prevented?
You cannot always prevent vaginal prolapse, but you can lower your risk by:
- Doing pelvic floor exercises regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding lifting heavy objects
- Treating chronic cough or constipation
- Not smoking
When should I see a doctor?
You should see a gynecologist if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- A bulge or lump in the vagina
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area
- Difficulty urinating or having a bowel movement
- Pain during sex
- Lower back or pelvic pain
Getting help early can make it easier to manage the condition and improve your quality of life.
Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Vaginal Prolapse treatment in Lucknow, India?
Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Vaginal Prolapse treatment in Lucknow, India. We have a team of experienced gynecologists, urogynecologists, and pelvic floor specialists. We provide accurate diagnosis through detailed pelvic examination and necessary tests, along with personalized treatment options including pelvic floor therapy and minimally invasive surgery when required. Our care focuses on relieving the feeling of bulge or pressure, improving bladder and bowel symptoms, restoring pelvic support, and enhancing quality of life with complete care.
To seek an Expert Consultation for Vaginal Prolapse treatment in Lucknow, India:
Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com
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