Pelvic Organ Prolapse Diagnoses and Treatment

Pelvic Organ Prolapse is a medical condition where one or more of the pelvic organs drops (prolapses) from its normal place in the lower belly and pushes against the walls of the vagina. This problem affects many women, particular women who are older. It happens when the muscles and ligaments that support the pelvic organs and hold them into place become weakened and stretched due to childbirth, surgeries or menopause. There are several different types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse including posterior prolapse, uterine prolapse and small bowel prolapse. Treatment options will vary according to the type and severity of the condition.

To diagnose Pelvic Organ Prolapse, your physician will start with a physical exam of your pelvic organs. This helps to determine the type and severity of the problem. He or she will also conduct an oral review to get information about your symptoms, your medical history and your family history. Diagnoses may also involve the use of a cotton swab test, a bladder function test, a pelvic floor strength test, an MRI, an Ultrasound or a Cystoscopy.

Once your condition has been properly diagnosed, there are a variety of treatments available for Pelvic Organ Prolapse. For mild to moderate cases, treatment usually starts with non-surgical methods including medications and physical therapy. If these methods are not effective in treating the problem, surgery may be required. In severe cases, surgery may be performed without first attempting non-surgical treatments.

If left untreated, Pelvic Organ Prolapse can negatively affect your overall health and quality of life. However, you do not have to continue to suffer. If you are experiencing symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse, schedule an appointment with your Gynecologist today so he or she can confirm the diagnoses and prescribe the best treatment or treatments to suit your particular case.