Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pressure, a bulge, or heaviness in the vagina — prolapse happens when the pelvic floor can no longer hold the bladder, uterus or rectum in place. It is common and treatable.
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP)
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles or ligaments in the pelvic floor are stretched or become too weak to hold the pelvic organs in their correct position. When this happens, organs such as the bladder, rectum and uterus can bulge (prolapse) into the vagina and sometimes past the vaginal opening. Imagine a hammock tied between two trees — and then that same hammock after years of heavy use.
Common causes include pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, chronic straining, and prior pelvic surgery.
Types of prolapse
- Cystocele — the bladder drops as the upper vaginal wall loses support; symptoms include pressure, a slow stream, overactive bladder and incomplete emptying
- Uterine / vaginal vault prolapse — weakening of the supports holding the upper vagina or uterus; pressure, pain, bladder infections and difficulty urinating
- Rectocele — the rectum bulges into the vagina; straining, a feeling of rectal fullness, and difficulty with bowel movements
- Enterocele — the small intestine bulges through the top of the vagina, often after hysterectomy; vague pelvic pressure and low backache
You are not alone
Up to half of women may develop some degree of prolapse, more than 3 million women in the United States are affected, and about 1 in 9 will need prolapse surgery in her lifetime. If you have noticed pressure or discomfort in the pelvis or vagina, diminished bladder or bowel control, or pain with intercourse, it is worth talking to a specialist sooner rather than later.
How Dr. Sosenko can help
Dr. Sosenko's training included female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. Treatment ranges from pelvic-floor physical therapy and a fitted pessary to outpatient reconstructive surgery, and is chosen together with you based on your symptoms, anatomy and goals — including whether prolapse is contributing to urinary leakage or retention.
Patient resources
- Pelvic organ prolapse — condition brochure (PDF) · en español
- Pelvic organ prolapse FAQ (PDF) · en español
Condition description, statistics, video and downloadable materials provided by Boston Scientific.
Videos
This page is general patient education and is not a substitute for a visit. Every patient is different — Dr. Sosenko will review your history, examination, and test results before recommending treatment.