In women it is common for connective tissue to lose elasticity and lengthen, and the pelvic floor muscles to weaken with time. (The number of pregnancies and vaginal deliveries increase the risk as well as being postmenopausal.) As a result, the ligaments holding the bladder, rectum or the uterus may not be able to hold everything in its original anatomical position. The weakening can result in pelvic organ prolapse and create symptoms.
When pelvic organ prolapse is present, it may be a relief to wear a device called a pessary. This can be useful for bladder, uterus or rectal descent (respectively the medical terms are: cystocele, prolapsus uteri or rectocele). To determine the type and size, in Hungary you need a specialized gynecologist to fit it for you.
Is physiotherapy beneficial if you live with pelvic organ prolapse?
Physiotherapy is recommended for all types and grades of prolapse. A specialized gynecologist can assist you in determining the type and the extent of the prolapse you have. If the prolapse grade is low, with diligent exercise and lifestyle modifications you will likely get rid of any discomfort it causes and you can prevent it from progressing.
If you have a higher grade of pelvic organ prolapse and it causes you distress, especially if it is a uterine prolapse, your doctor might recommend surgery. It is important for the pelvic floor muscles to be in good shape before surgery to help stabilize the state that the operation will achieve. It is recommended to do prehabilitation and rehabilitation with a pelvic health specialist physiotherapist. The treatment modalities can be found on the ‘Pelvic Floor Muscle Training’ page.
Surgery provides repositioning of the organs, by suspending them, improving the hold of weakened-lengthened ligaments. Surgery, on the other hand, does not correct function. Exercise is necessary for improving function, and is very important to prevent recurrence of prolapse.
Women’s Health Physiotherapy assists women through different cycles of life