Pelvic Prolapse, Signs, Symptoms & Treatments
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) or Pelvic Prolapse, occurs when the muscles of the pelvic floor tear or weaken. The weakening connective tissue can cause organs to drop, or fall, in the vagina. For women experiencing this, they may see tissue in the opening of their vagina.
Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Prolapse
Pelvic Prolapse is surprisingly a common problem that occurs with little to no symptoms in women. However, those that do see symptoms might experience:
- The inability to properly wear a tampon due to the tissue obstructing the opening
- Built up pressure experienced from the tissue near the opening of the vagina
- Vaginal dryness and/or irritation that is caused from clothing
- Trouble urinating and/or problems with bowel movements
- Urinary Incontinence
What Causes Pelvic Prolapse
Pelvic prolapse can be brought on by numerous events in a women’s lifetime. Damage to the pelvic floor may include:
- Childbirth and Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Health Conditions
- Lifting of Heavy Objects
- Genetics
Screening for Pelvic Prolapse
For our Board Certified Urologists to determine if you are experiencing pelvic prolapse, you will undergo a pelvic exam as well as a medical history review. This process will allow us to measure your vaginal prolapse while using a standard grading system to determine if you have this common medical condition.
Pelvic Prolapse Treatments
Treatments for Pelvic Prolapse are determined on a case by case basis. There are numerous treatment options our Urologists can use:
Pelvic Floor Therapy
Pelvic Floor Physical therapy works to strengthen the surrounding muscles and decrease the amount of discomfort that can be associated with the prolapse. It can also help improve any associated loss of urine control (incontinence).
The Pessary for Pelvic Prolapse
Pessaries are small plastic devices that come in different shapes and sizes, specially selected to accommodate a woman’s unique anatomy. They are placed into the vagina and function to support the pelvic organs to keep them in position. They can also help with incontinence, too.
Pelvic Prolapse Surgery
There are multiple types of surgeries that can be done to permanently correct the prolapse, as well as multiple approaches—vaginally, abdominally, with or without robotic assistance. We work with a given patient to determine which is best for her.
Advanced Urology Associates treats pelvic prolapse in patients from Aurora, Bolingbrook, Chicago, Crest Hill, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Frankfort, Homer Glen, Joliet, Lombard, Lockport, New Lenxon, Mokena, Morris, Naperville, Orland Park, Park Ridge, Plainfield, Tinley Park and Woodridge.
Constance Marks, M.D.
Dr. Marks is certified by the American Board of Urology. Dr. Marks treats patients with pelvic prolapse at Advanced Urology Associates office in Joliet, and our Silver Cross Hospital location in New Lenox, Illinois.
