Prolapse
Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more pelvic organs (such as the bladder, uterus, bowel, or top of the vagina) descend from their normal position and press against the vaginal walls. This can happen when the pelvic floor muscles and supporting tissues become weakened or stretched.
Common Symptoms
- A feeling of heaviness, pressure, or dragging in the vagina
- A visible or noticeable bulge in the vaginal area
- Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel completely
- Urinary leakage or increased urgency
- Discomfort during exercise or daily activities
- Lower back or pelvic discomfort
Symptoms often become more noticeable after prolonged standing, lifting, or at the end of the day.
What Causes Prolapse?
Several factors can increase the risk of developing prolapse, including:
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Chronic constipation or straining
- Repeated heavy lifting
- Menopause and ageing
- Chronic coughing
- High-impact exercise
- Previous pelvic surgery
- Genetic predisposition to weaker connective tissues
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy is a recommended first-line treatment for many people with pelvic organ prolapse and can help manage symptoms, improve function, and prevent progression.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Training
A physiotherapist can assess your pelvic floor muscles and prescribe a personalised exercise program to improve your pelvic floor muscle strength and endurance which will lead to
- Enhanced support for the pelvic organs
- Reduced symptoms of heaviness and bulging
- Improved bladder and bowel control
Education and Lifestyle Advice
Reducing strain on the pelvic floor is an important part of managing a prolapse. Your physiotherapist can provide guidance on:
- Safe lifting and exercise techniques
- Managing constipation and straining
- Optimising bladder and bowel habits
- Weight management strategies
- Activity modification when needed
Return to Exercise
Many people with prolapse can continue exercising safely. Physiotherapists can help you:
- Identify activities that aggravate symptoms
- Modify exercise programs
- Build strength and confidence
- Return to the activities you enjoy
Pessary Support
Some pelvic health physiotherapists are trained to fit and manage vaginal pessaries, which can provide additional support to the pelvic organs and reduce symptoms.
**PLEASE NOTE** Our women’s health physiotherapist do not currently offer pessary fitting, however, can refer you on to an appropriate practitioner if it seems like the best course of action.
When Should You Seek Help?
Consider seeing a pelvic health physiotherapist as early as possible if you experience any prolapse symptoms. While it is possible to significantly improve symptoms with physiotherapy, structural changes are not necessarily reversible. Early assessment and treatment can help manage symptoms effectively and support long-term pelvic health, avoiding a more substantial prolapse.
Book a Women’s Health Assessment with one of our physiotherapist to discuss the treatment options best suited to your needs.
