Demystifying pelvic organ prolapse

Reproductive and urologic health can be a cause for concern for many people. Often, the topic of pelvic organ prolapses is not discussed until a patient has already experienced symptoms. At UChicago Medicine, our urogynecologists help patients understand what pelvic prolapses are and what can be done to treat them.

What is a prolapse and how does it occur?

Pelvic organ prolapse is a sagging of the support of the uterus or vaginal walls. As the support weakens, the walls and/or uterus can drop towards the vaginal opening. As prolapse worsens, the walls or uterus can come through the opening and a vaginal bulge can be seen.

Who is at risk to experience a pelvic prolapse and how common are they?

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs as a result of weakening of the pelvic support structures. This is a result of a combination of childbirth injury, genetics, aging and chronic straining with constipation. It is very common, with about 50 percent of women having some degree of prolapse. Over 12 percent of American women will have surgery for it in their lifetime.

If prolapse is untreated, what can occur?

Prolapse is not a dangerous condition, but it can be uncomfortable. Symptoms of prolapse can include a sensation of pressure in the pelvis or vagina, difficulty emptying your bowels or bladder, and discomfort if the uterine tissue bulges out of the vaginal opening. It is generally safe to leave prolapse untreated unless the prolapse is very large or causes difficulty with bowel or bladder emptying.

How is prolapse treated?

There are multiple options for treating prolapse. Pelvic floor or kegel exercises can be helpful in reducing prolapse symptoms, but will not make the prolapse go away. A pessary — a vaginal support — can also be placed in the vagina to hold up the uterus or vaginal walls. With the prolapse pushed back up, most women get relief from their symptoms. Prolapse can also be repaired surgically. A wide variety of minimally invasive procedures can be performed to repair prolapse. They are tailored to address the specific site of the prolapse, the amount of prolapse and to meet your specific goals and preferences.

What can patients do to minimize risk of prolapsing or assist with healing after a prolapse?

You can promote pelvic health by first making sure that you have a strong pelvic floor. Doing Kegel exercises is one of the best ways to make sure that your muscles are supporting your pelvis to the best of their ability. Avoidance of chronic straining is also helpful. Make sure your diet contains enough fiber to avoid constipation. Avoiding smoking and reducing chronic coughing will also reduce strain on the pelvic floor.

Is it possible to experience a prolapse multiple times?

Prolapse is similar to a hernia you might get in the abdominal wall. Like a hernia, prolapse can come back after it is surgically repaired.