Pelvic organ prolapse in women is when a pelvic organ drops from its regular placement in the body and pushes against the walls of the vagina. This is not uncommon in women nor is it necessarily untreatable or progressive. The most common type of pelvic organ prolapse occurs with the bladder, though it can also happen with the urethra, uterus, vagina, small bowel, and rectum.
Often pelvic organ prolapse happens because of a strain put on the organs in that region, as in childbirth or hysterectomy. As listed on WebMD, here are some typical symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse:
- Pressure from pelvic organs against the vaginal wall.
- Feeling full in the lower belly.
- Feeling like something is falling out of your vagina.
- Feeling a pulling or stretching in your groin area or pain in your lower back.
- Incontinence, or a need to urinate frequently.
- Vaginal pain during sex.
- Bowel issues, including constipation.
Since June is Pelvic Organ Prolapse Awareness month, make yourself aware of the causes and symptoms of POP. It’s nothing to be ashamed of and it’s something we at BBPT can help you with! Take a look at this video from POP Advocate Sherrie Palm’s POP Awareness Month series about POP and PT, and let us know how we can help you!