Pelvic Organ Prolapse Specialist

The Center for Women's Health

Obstetrics & Gynecology, Board Certified OBGYNs & Obstetrics & Gynecology located in Newport News, VA

You might assume that your body’s internal structures will keep your organs in place. But as you age, it’s common for the muscles and tissue supporting your pelvic organs to weaken. This can cause one or more of the organs to slip out of place, or prolapse. The board-certified OB/GYNs at The Center for Women’s Health in Newport News, Virginia, offer dedicated pelvic organ prolapse care. For pelvic organ prolapse diagnosis and treatment, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse Q & A

What is pelvic organ prolapse?

Your pelvic bones form a bowl and your pelvic organs — including your uterus, bladder, rectum, and vagina — are situated inside that bowl. They rely on a support structure of muscle and tissue to remain in place as you move throughout your day.

As you age, these support structures weaken. Smoking and obesity can also put excess strain on your pelvic muscles, heightening your risk for pelvic organ prolapse.

When your pelvic tissue and muscles weaken, it can cause one or more of the organs within your pelvis to prolapse, or shift out of place. Thanks to gravity, they drop down, pressing onto or into your vagina. Pelvic organ prolapse is often uncomfortable.

What are the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse?

Women with pelvic organ prolapse often experience symptoms like:

  • The sensation of something pressing onto or coming out of their vagina
  • Pelvic fullness or pressure that may worsen throughout the day
  • Difficulty inserting tampons
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Discomfort during sex 

Your symptoms may worsen after being on your feet for an extended period or engaging in physical activity. 

How is pelvic organ prolapse diagnosed and treated?

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, don’t hesitate to make an appointment at The Center for Women’s Health. They’ll perform a pelvic exam and use other tests or diagnostic tools, like an ultrasound, to most accurately diagnose your pelvic organ prolapse.

Once they have an accurate diagnosis, they can explore your treatment options with you. Nonsurgical treatments are typically first considered for pelvic organ prolapse. 

A pessary is a removable device you insert into your vagina to support your organs while pelvic floor therapy strengthens your muscles. Changing your diet to include more fiber and ease strain on your bowels can also help treat prolapse. 

If nonsurgical treatment isn’t effective, The Center for Women’s Health also offers surgery to correct the prolapsed organ. They can use a synthetic mesh or your own tissue to provide the support structure the organ needs.

You don’t have to live with the discomfort of pelvic organ prolapse. To explore your treatment options, call The Center for Women’s Health or schedule an appointment online today.