Why is no one talking about pelvic organ prolapse?

Up to 50% of women will experience pelvic organ prolapse during their lifetime. So, why do women not know about it? It seems to be one of the last taboo women’s health topics, and it doesn’t get discussed. Pelvic organ prolapse is when one or more of a woman’s pelvic organs drop below their previous location, putting pressure on the organs below, and, in some cases, bulging into the vagina. While it is not life-threatening, it can have a significant impact on a woman’s quality of life. Our San Antonio OBGYNs will provide the information you need to know to help “stop the drop.”

Ways to “stop the drop” of pelvic organ prolapse

What can be done to prevent pelvic organ prolapse? A healthy lifestyle and early intervention are the way to go. Exercises to maintain a strong core and pelvic floor can help minimize the effects of aging, pregnancy, childbirth and other factors that contribute to pelvic floor weakness.

If you don’t know how to exercise your pelvic floor or core, there are physical therapists specially trained to help women strengthen their pelvic floors who can teach you exercises that target the pelvic floor and core muscles. The exercises may be challenging at first, but with proper instruction and practice, they become easy and effective.

In addition to these exercises, a few other lifestyle changes can slow prolapse progression.

• Prevent constipation by adding fiber to your diet and staying hydrated with water
• Stop smoking
• Lose weight, if needed, to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor

Please keep in mind, this isn’t advice just for older women. The earlier you incorporate strengthening and good pelvic floor health into your lifestyle, the longer you can stop the drop and hold off the effects of these factors that you cannot change.

Skip this step

There is a lot of talk about “vaginal rejuvenation.” These procedures and treatments are aggressively marketed to women, but it is essential to know that they are purely cosmetic. These costly procedures do not treat pelvic floor weakness and won’t resolve symptoms.

Take action for your pelvic floor weakness

If you are experiencing symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, don’t “just live with it.” The earlier you address it, the better the potential outcomes for reducing symptoms and slowing progress.

Do you have more questions? Our San Antonio OBGYNs are available to answer any questions you have. If you are experiencing prolapse symptoms, please contact us for an appointment.