The type of POP treatment will vary from case to case. Those patients who have very mild or do not show any symptoms may not need treatment at all.
Muscle relaxation in the pelvic area has been known to cause weakness or laxity in the supporting structures in the pelvic region as well.Bladder, rectal, or uterine tissue may then bulge into the vagina. This bulging of tissue into the vagina is called pelvic organ prolapse (POP). This condition was once a rare occasion, however recent events have made it into a problem which is a serious priority to women’s health. Statistics are trending that now by age 80, 1 in every 10 women will have the need to undergo surgery for pelvic organ prolapse. Surgeons performing these surgeries may decide to opt to insert a transvaginal mesh inside the patient; these artificial meshes have been known to delay the need for a hysterectomy.
The problem with POP is that many women to show any signs or symptoms. One of the most common symptoms that women face is an uncomfortable pressure in the vaginal or pelvic areas. Most first hand reports say that it can be compared to the feeling of a tampon falling out.Other symptoms commonly experienced are; incontinence, uncomfortable intercourse, pain in the pelvic area unrelated to menstruation, lower back pain and difficulty getting stools out.
The type of POP treatment will vary from case to case. Those patients who have very mild or do not show any symptoms may not need treatment at all. Activities that would potentially worsen the prolapse should be avoided in these cases.These women are advised to lose weight if necessary, avoiding lifting any heavy objects, and quitting smoking to prevent their prolapses from progressing. The good news for these women is that POP does not always worsen as time goes by, and there usually isn’t a need for surgery unless the s symptoms get worse. The unfortunate part for the women who are experiencing major discomfort or inconvenience, surgery is the only definitive way to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
For those who are trying to avoid surgery, doctors can provide a series of non-surgical therapies depending on how severe the POP is. Doctors can advise for the following treatments:
Kegel exercises: These exercises are specifically performed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles in order to relieve symptoms of minor prolapse. This particular exercise involves identifying the pelvic floor muscles that purposely interrupt the flow of urine in midstream, and then tightening these muscles for three seconds and relaxing them for three seconds. Kegel exercises are commonly repeated 10 to 15 times per session, at least three times per day.
Vaginal pessary: This device is similar to the outer ring of a diaphragm and is placed into the patients vagina to help support the surrounding structures. Just like a diaphragm, the pessary is usually made of silicone and will be fitted by your doctor.
However for those who have a more severe form of POP surgery may again be the only choice in the matter. Many who have to settle for surgery may have a vaginal mesh placed into their pelvic area, these devices may lead to vaginal mesh side effects so be careful. If you have further questions about pelvic organ prolapse consult with your doctor.
Hip Fractures Common in Women with Prolapse
Doctors point out the need for regular physical evaluation in women, specifically to find out about their pelvic muscle strength and bone density. They need it more when they age 50 and over.
Pelvic Examination: Enough to Diagnose Presence of Prolapse?
You should know that there are series of tests that your doctor will perform to diagnose prolapse, and the first thing that you should be prepared about is the over-all assessment of your pelvic organs.
Sling Attachment during Prolapse Repair: Important?
Patients with pelvic organ prolapse opt for vaginal mesh implantation not only because it immediately puts an end to the embarrassing symptoms they acquire from pelvic organ prolapse, but most importantly because doctors recommend its use.
