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Before I discuss treatment options (including a pelvic fitness program you've probably never heard of), let's learn about prolapse. What is a prolapse? What does it feel like? What causes it?
Prolapse is a medical term to describe the descent of an organ. This can happen in different areas of the body but in regards to the pelvic floor, it can occur in the anterior and posterior wall of the vaginal canal. There are 3 main types of prolapses:
Cystocele: the bladder descends in the anterior wall of the vaginal canal
Rectocele: the rectum descends in the posterior wall of the vaginal canal or through the anus
Uterine: slips into the vaginal canal and can protrude outside the vagina
Many people describe symptoms of a prolapse as sensations of heaviness, pressure, a bulge in the vagina, or a “tampon feels like it is falling out”. Bladder and bowel symptoms may also be associated with a prolapse. A prolapse can be caused by weakened structures such as connective tissue and muscles. Typically it’s the result of such factors as childbirth, menopause, chronic constipation, heavy lifting, and chronic coughing.
What are some of the treatment options for prolapse?
Surgery: Yes there is an option for surgical procedure to repair prolapse and are recommended for particular cases of prolapse. However, not all of the procedures are successful in the long term. There is evidence that shows that people who opt for a surgical procedure have better outcomes and success rates if they went through pelvic floor PT prior to the procedure and following to manage intra-abdominal pressure, improve strength, and muscle function.
Pessary: A pessary is a device that is inserted (non surgically) into the vagina to provide support and relieve prolapse symptoms. It is recommended to find a medical provider who will do a thorough assessment and fitting. It may take a couple fittings to find the one that works best for you. Remember that one size does not fit all!
Pelvic Floor PT: A pelvic floor physical therapist will assess your posture, breathing mechanics, pelvic floor muscle tension and motor control, and other regions of the body that may be influencing your prolapse symptoms. In some cases, it may be necessary to have a fitting of a pessary to use in combination with pelvic floor PT.
Hypopressives / Low Pressure Fitness: Increase in intra-abdominal pressure is one of the main causes of prolapse and can be managed through a revolutionary movement system called Low Pressure Fitness. This system of mindfulness exercises applies the hypopressive breathing technique to create a change in pressure (a suctioning effect) with a reflexive activation of the pelvic floor and deep abdominal muscles. This "abdominal vacuum" can help with symptoms of prolapse. In some cases, it can actually reverse the condition to some extent.
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The point is, you have options. Contact us at Activcore Littleton to get help now.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on the opinion of the author, unless otherwise noted, and should not be taken as personal medical advice. The information provided is intended to help readers make their own informed health and wellness decisions.
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