Pelvic Organ Prolapse Specialist

What is pelvic organ prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse is a broad term covering instances when any of the organs located near the pelvis slide out of position because of weak pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues. Although there are several types of pelvic organ prolapse, they share some common symptoms:

• A feeling of pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen
• Trouble placing a tampon
• Trouble emptying your bladder entirely
• Overactive bladder
• Stress urinary incontinence 
• Vaginal dryness
• A visible bulge coming out of the vaginal opening

To find out if you have pelvic organ prolapse, you must come in for a comprehensive evaluation at Valley Urogynecology Associates. During a pelvic exam, your provider takes measurements to determine the severity of the prolapse. 

Which type of pelvic organ prolapse do I have?

There are multiple types of pelvic organ prolapse. They happen according to which muscles and tissues have become less supportive with time. Valley Urogynecology Associates specializes in diagnosing and treating:

Cystocele

Cystocele is a term for a type of prolapse that causes the bladder and urethra to sag downward. It’s also called anterior vaginal wall prolapse.  

Rectocele

Rectocele, also called posterior vaginal wall prolapse, causes the rectum to bulge into the vaginal space. 

Vaginal prolapse

Vaginal prolapse or vaginal vault prolapse causes your vaginal walls to drop down. It often happens after hysterectomy.  

Uterine prolapse

Uterine prolapse happens when the uterus loses some of its support, causing the organ to slide down into the vagina. 

How is pelvic organ prolapse treated?

Your providers at Valley Urogynecology Associates treat pelvic organ prolapse according to the type, its severity, whether you plan on any future pregnancies, and other factors. After your initial evaluations and exams, they can select one or more techniques to repair or ease pelvic organ prolapse symptoms.

A few of the treatments and strategies that can help you manage pelvic organ prolapse are:

• Activity modification
• Weight reduction
• Smoking cessation
• Pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels)
• Vaginal devices (pessaries)
• Pelvic floor reconstruction
• Obliterative surgery (vaginal closure)

Some people experience great results from conservative care and do not need surgery for pelvic organ prolapse. If your providers recommend surgery, they may use robotic or minimally invasive techniques to improve your outcome. 

To schedule an appointment for symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, call Valley Urogynecology Associates or book online today.