Pelvic organ prolapse, POP, sometimes coined the female hernia, can happen at various times throughout life. Pelvic organ prolapse is when a pelvic organ “drops” from its optimal position in the pelvis and pushes on the wall of the vagina. Pregnancy, childbirth, chronic constipation, and menopause are common causes or contributors to POP.
Once believed that only surgery was the solution for POP, we now know that conservative care such as Pelvic Physical Therapy can reduce the symptoms and prolong, or even prevent, the need for surgical repair.
Below are the most common types of POP, sometimes more than one area can be involved:
Cystocele
Anterior wall prolapse is when the bladder drops and pushes on the front wall of the vagina.
Rectocele
Posterior vaginal prolapse, occurs when the wall between the rectum and the vagina weakens and the rectum pushes into the vagina. Common causes are childbirth and chronic constipation.
Uterine Prolapse
When the uterus descends toward or into the vagina, in essence, shortening the vaginal canal.
Pelvic Wellness Center of Salem is an independently owned physical therapy clinic in Salem, Oregon focused exclusively on treating pelvic health issues through physical therapy. Contact us today!