What Exactly is Pelvic Organ Prolapse? What are the Different Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

What exactly is pelvic organ prolapse? What are the different types of pelvic organ
prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition where one or more organs in the pelvic
region, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, protrude or "drop" into the vagina
due to weakened pelvic floor muscles or ligaments.
The pelvic floor muscles and ligaments normally support the pelvic organs in place,
but they can become weakened due to various factors such as pregnancy, childbirth,
menopause, obesity, chronic cough, and heavy lifting.
As a result, the organs can slip out of place and cause symptoms such as:
● A feeling of pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area
● A bulge or lump in the vagina
● Pain during sex
● Urinary incontinence or frequent urination
● Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel
Treatment options for POP depend on the severity of the condition and the
symptoms experienced.
Mild cases of POP may be managed with pelvic floor exercises or pessaries, which
are devices that support the organs in place.
In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the pelvic floor and
support the organs. Treatment may also involve managing any underlying conditions
that contribute to POP, such as obesity or chronic cough.
Types of pelvic organ prolapse
There are different types of pelvic organ prolapse, depending on which organ or
organs are affected. The most common types include:
1. Cystocele:
This occurs when the bladder drops into the vagina, causing a bulge or lump in the
front vaginal wall. This can lead to symptoms such as urinary incontinence, frequent
urination, and difficulty emptying the bladder.
2. Rectocele:
This occurs in the back vaginal wall when the rectum bulges. It can cause difficulty
emptying the bowel and constipation.

3. Uterine prolapse:
This occurs when the uterus drops into the vagina. It can cause a feeling of pressure
or heaviness in the pelvic area, as well as pain during sex.
4. Vaginal vault prolapse:
This occurs mostly after hysterectomy when the top of the vagina drops down. It can
cause a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the pelvic area.
5. Enterocele:
This occurs when a portion of the small intestine protrudes into the upper part of the
vagina. It can cause a bulge or lump in the vaginal wall, as well as discomfort or pain
during sex.
Pelvic organ prolapse can involve one or more organs and can vary in severity. It is
important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms of pelvic
organ prolapse. A healthcare provider can recommend treatment options after
conducting a physical examination.
How Uro Gynaecologist, Gynaecologist offer treatments for pelvic organ prolapse
Both urogynecologists and gynecologists can offer treatments for pelvic organ
prolapse, depending on their specific training and expertise.
Urogynecologists are specialists who focus on the treatment of pelvic floor disorders,
including pelvic organ prolapse. They may use a wide range of treatment options,
including:
1. Pelvic floor exercises:
These are exercises that can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve
their support of the pelvic organs.
2. Pessaries:

These are devices that can be inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs
and help reduce symptoms.
3. Surgery:
In more severe cases of pelvic organ prolapse, surgery may be necessary to repair
the pelvic floor and support the organs. This can involve a range of surgical
techniques, depending on the type and severity of the prolapse.
Gynecologists, on the other hand, may also offer treatment options for pelvic organ
prolapse, depending on their training and experience. They may recommend similar
treatments to urogynecologists, including pelvic floor exercises and pessaries. In
cases where surgery is necessary, they may refer patients to a urogynecologist or a
surgeon with expertise in pelvic floor surgery.
Both urogynecologists and gynecologists can work together to provide
comprehensive care for women with pelvic organ prolapse, including managing any
underlying conditions that may contribute to the prolapse, such as obesity or chronic
cough. Treatment options will depend on the individual patient's needs and goals, as
well as the severity and type of prolapse.
How to prevent pelvic organ prolapse
While it may not always be possible to prevent pelvic organ prolapse, there are some
steps that can help reduce the risk or delay the onset of the condition. Some tips to
help prevent pelvic organ prolapse include:
1. Maintain a healthy weight:

Excess weight can put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles and increase the risk of
prolapse. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet
can help reduce this risk.
2. Practice good bowel habits:
Straining during bowel movements can weaken the pelvic floor muscles over time.
Eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, and using the restroom when you
feel the urge can help prevent constipation and straining.
3. Avoid heavy lifting:
Lifting heavy objects can strain the pelvic floor muscles and increase the risk of
prolapse. If you must lift heavy objects, be sure to use proper lifting techniques and
ask for help if needed.
4. Treat chronic cough:
Coughing can put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles and increase the risk of
prolapse. Treating any underlying conditions that cause chronic cough, such as
allergies or asthma, can help reduce this risk.
5. Practice pelvic floor exercises:
Regular pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels, can help strengthen the pelvic
floor muscles and improve their support of the pelvic organs.
6. Avoid smoking:
Smoking has been linked to a higher risk of pelvic organ prolapse, so quitting
smoking can help reduce this risk.

It is also important to maintain good overall health, including managing any chronic
conditions such as diabetes or hypertension and attending regular check-ups with a
healthcare provider to monitor for any signs of pelvic organ prolapse.