Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- A feeling of heaviness, dragging, or pressure in the pelvic area
- Difficulty with bowel movements or urinary retention
- A visible bulge in the vaginal or rectal area
- Lower back pain or discomfort
- Urinary incontinence or frequent urinary urgency
- Incomplete urine emptying
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse
How Pelvic Organ
Prolapse Occurs
Pelvic organ prolapse develops when the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues are unable to support the pelvic organs. It can also be influenced by tightness of the pelvic floor muscles or pressure from abdominal contents above. This can be caused by:
- Pregnancy and Childbirth: Vaginal delivery can stretch or weaken the pelvic floor, especially with prolonged labor or delivery of a baby more than 6-8 pounds.
- Aging and Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can weaken connective tissues and pelvic floor muscles, increasing the risk of prolapse.
- Chronic Pressure on the Pelvic Floor: Activities like heavy lifting, straining during bowel movements, or chronic coughing can contribute to pelvic floor disorders.
- Other Contributing Factors: Obesity, genetics, or previous pelvic surgeries can also increase the likelihood of organ prolapse.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
- Pelvic Floor Exercises: Targeted exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, improve support for pelvic organs, and prevent pelvic organ prolapse from worsening.
- Manual Therapy Techniques: Hands-on techniques to release muscle tension, improve alignment, and restore mobility in the pelvic region.
- Education and Empowerment: Guidance on lifestyle modifications and body mechanics to prevent further strain on the pelvic floor.
- Symptom Management: Addressing urinary incontinence and other issues related to severe prolapse for improved quality of life.
- Customized Care: Your treatment plan is designed to meet your unique needs and comfort level, ensuring you feel supported throughout your recovery.
- Navigating Using Support: Guidance on using readily available supportive devices or speaking to a doctor on using supportive devices, such as a pessary if needed.
What to Expect During Your Sessions
During Your Initial Appointment
During Your Additional Appointments
Client Testimonials
Beyond Basics: We Can Help
At Beyond Basics, we are committed to treating pelvic floor issues with sensitivity to each individual’s needs, regardless of sex, race, identity, age, or orientation – we treat the whole person with a comprehensive, caring biopsychosocial approach.
Since 2003, Beyond Basics has been a place of hope and healing for our patients. We believe skilled and compassionate healing can restore your body’s harmony and balance. Founder, Amy Stein, and co-founder, Corey Hazama are renowned experts and leaders in pelvic floor PT.
The skilled physical therapists at Beyond Basics receive extensive training to qualify them to be the world’s leaders in pelvic floor rehabilitation. All of our therapists have been carefully selected to work at Beyond Basics because they possess the right expertise, kindness, and empathy to allow them to excel at our practice. Our therapists have completed hundreds of additional hours outside of their doctorates both internally and externally through institutes such as Herman and Wallace and the American Physical Therapy Association, to help hone their practice and provide exceptional treatment efficiently and compassionately. In addition to being the world’s first and foremost experts in pelvic floor dysfunction, our individual therapists have cultivated additional skills unique to their own personal interests. Read more about each one of our therapists here.
Get help now from a pelvic floor therapist.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
— Beyond Basics PT | Pelvic Floor Therapy NYC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes pelvic organ prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse is caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues, often due to life events like childbirth, menopause, or ongoing strain on the pelvic floor such as during pregnancy, or with repeated heavy lifting.
Can pelvic organ prolapse be treated without surgery?
Yes, many cases of pelvic organ prolapse can be managed with physical therapy, including pelvic floor and postural exercises, and manual hands on therapy.
How is pelvic organ prolapse diagnosed?
A healthcare provider, such as a physical therapist, typically diagnoses pelvic organ prolapse through a physical exam and symptoms assessment.
How do pelvic floor exercises help?
Pelvic floor and postural exercises strengthen the muscles supporting your pelvic organs, helping to alleviate symptoms and prevent further prolapse.
Can physical therapy help with severe prolapse?
Yes, even in cases of severe prolapse, physical therapy can improve symptoms and provide non-surgical relief.
What lifestyle changes can prevent pelvic organ prolapse?
Reducing extra weight or pressure on the pelvis, avoiding heavy lifting with a valsalva, and addressing chronic coughing or constipation can reduce your risk of prolapse.
What should I expect during pelvic organ prolapse treatment?
You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan that includes exercises, hands on manual therapy, and education on preventing further strain on your pelvic floor.
