Pelvic Organ Prolapse
What causes pelvic organ prolapse, the symptoms it produces and how it is treated, explained by Dr. Veena Choodamani, gynecologist, Trivandrum.
Overview
Pelvic organ prolapse is a type of pelvic floor disorder that is common in many women. It happens when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs (the uterus, bladder, or rectum) become weak or loose.
Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Anything that puts increased pressure in the abdomen can lead to pelvic organ prolapse. Some of the common causes of pelvic organ prolapse include:
-
Pregnancy, labor, and childbirth (the most common causes)
-
Obesity
-
Respiratory problems with a chronic, long-term cough
-
Constipation
-
Pelvic organ cancers
-
Surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy)
Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Some of the common symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse are:-
-
The feeling of pelvic pressure or fullness
-
A bulge in the vagina
-
Leakage of urine (urinary incontinence)
-
Difficulty completely emptying the bladder
-
Problems having a bowel movement
-
Lower back pain
Dr. Veena Choodamani sees patients with pelvic organ prolapse at Magnum Hospital, Ulloor. Treatment is chosen for the individual case.
This page is written for general understanding and is not medical advice. It cannot take account of your own history, and a consultation is needed before any diagnosis or treatment. Reviewed by Dr. Veena Choodamani, MBBS, MD, DNB.