Did you know that about 1 in 10 women experience pelvic organ prolapse? Yet, many people don’t even realize this condition exists. Simply put, prolapse happens when the vagina loses its structural support, causing its walls to weaken and drop—sometimes even reaching or extending through the vaginal opening. When this happens, nearby organs like the bladder, bowel, rectum, and uterus can also shift downward.

This can lead to symptoms like pelvic pressure, a bulging sensation, vaginal dryness or irritation, discomfort during intimacy, or difficulty inserting tampons or other devices. Some women also experience urinary issues, such as trouble fully emptying the bladder or accidental leakage. Often, the first signs appear when showering or wiping.

So, what causes prolapse? A weakened pelvic floor. This group of muscles and tissues acts like a hammock, holding up your pelvic organs. Over time, various factors can weaken this support system—pregnancy and childbirth, aging and menopause, chronic coughing, constipation, repeated heavy lifting, higher body weight, or even genetics.

There are different types of prolapse, depending on which organ is affected:

• Cystocele: When the bladder drops.
• Uterine prolapse: When the uterus moves downward toward or through the vaginal opening.
• Rectocele: When the rectum bulges into the vaginal space.
  Most women have a mix of these types. As prolapse worsens, it can also weaken the urethral sphincter, increasing the risk of urinary leakage, especially if prolapse is corrected later. On the other hand, prolapse can make it harder to fully empty the bladder, which can lead to more bladder infections or even kidney problems if left untreated.

If you or your doctor notice signs of prolapse, there are conservative steps you can take, like pelvic floor physical therapy, targeted exercises (such as Pilates or barre), and the use of pessaries (a supportive device placed in the vagina).

If these options don’t provide enough relief, we’re here to help you explore additional treatment choices. Together, we’ll find a solution that works best for your body, lifestyle, and preferences.