Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition that can affect many women over their lifetime. It occurs when the muscles and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs become weakened or stretched. This can allow organs such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum to shift downward and press into the vaginal wall.

While pelvic organ prolapse is not life-threatening, it can cause pressure, discomfort, and changes in bladder or bowel function. MyObgyne provides pelvic organ prolapse evaluation and treatment in San Tan Valley, AZ, with care focused on symptom relief and restoring comfort.

What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when pelvic floor support loses strength. As a result, one or more pelvic organs may move out of their usual position.

Types of pelvic organ prolapse include:

• Cystocele (bladder prolapse): the bladder bulges into the front wall of the vagina
• Rectocele: the rectum presses into the back wall of the vagina
• Uterine prolapse: the uterus descends into the vaginal canal
• Vaginal vault prolapse: the top of the vagina drops, most often after hysterectomy
• Enterocele: the small intestine pushes into the upper vaginal wall

Some patients experience more than one type of prolapse.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms vary based on the type and severity of prolapse. You may notice:

• A feeling of pressure or heaviness in the pelvis
• A bulge or protrusion in the vaginal area
• A sensation that something is falling out of the vagina
• Urinary leakage or difficulty fully emptying the bladder
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Constipation or incomplete bowel movements
• Discomfort or pain with intercourse
• Lower back pain or pelvic aching

Symptoms often worsen after standing for long periods, lifting, or at the end of the day, and may improve when lying down.

Causes and Risk Factors

Pelvic organ prolapse often results from pressure on the pelvic floor combined with weakened support. Risk factors can include:

• Vaginal childbirth, especially with larger babies or difficult or multiple deliveries
• Aging and menopause, which can affect tissue strength and elasticity
• Chronic coughing, constipation, or frequent heavy lifting
• Obesity
• Genetic predisposition
• Previous pelvic surgery, including hysterectomy

Although prolapse becomes more common with age, it is not something you have to accept. Treatment can help at many stages.

When to See a Provider

Schedule a visit with an OB-GYN in San Tan Valley if you:

• Notice pressure, heaviness, or a bulge in the vaginal area
• Have urinary leakage, incomplete bladder emptying, or bowel changes
• Experience discomfort during sex
• Have a family history of prolapse and are noticing symptoms

Early evaluation can support more treatment options and help prevent symptoms from worsening.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically begins with a pelvic exam to evaluate the type and severity of prolapse. Your provider will also review symptoms, daily activities, and goals. It helps to share when symptoms began and whether they have changed over time.

Additional testing may be recommended in some cases, including:

• Urinalysis or bladder function testing
• Pelvic ultrasound
• MRI in complex cases or for surgical planning

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type of prolapse, symptom severity, and your future pregnancy plans. Care may include nonsurgical options, supportive devices, and surgery when needed.

Conservative options may include:

• Pelvic floor physical therapy to strengthen support muscles
• Pessary fitting, which uses a removable device to support pelvic organs
• Lifestyle adjustments such as weight management, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating chronic cough or constipation
• Topical vaginal estrogen for postmenopausal tissue support when appropriate

Surgical options may include:

• Vaginal or laparoscopic repair of the affected area
• Uterine suspension or hysterectomy when uterine prolapse is present and surgery is appropriate
• Mesh procedures in select cases with careful counseling based on current guidance and risks

We will review options with you and recommend an approach based on symptoms, medical history, and preferences.

You Do Not Have to Live With Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is common and treatable. Whether symptoms are new or have been present for years, many patients find meaningful improvement with evaluation and targeted treatment.

For pelvic organ prolapse care in San Tan Valley, AZ, schedule an appointment with MyObgyne to discuss symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.