What exactly is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
A strong pelvic floor is responsible for holding your internal organs in place - your bladder, uterus, vagina, small intestine, and rectum. The pelvic floor is often described as a hammock. When the pelvic floor weakens, these organs can slip out of place and may herniate into the vagina.
What causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Many different things can contribute to pelvic organ prolapse, but most often the cause is vaginal childbirth, aging, menopause, obesity, or traumatic injury.
Are there different kinds of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Yes. We typically see 5 different kinds:
- Cystocele occurs when the vaginal wall weakens and allows the bladder to herniate into the vagina. This condition can often cause stress incontinence.
- Enterocele is a condition that occurs when the small bowel presses against or herniates into the vagina.
- Rectocele occurs when the back of the vaginal wall weakens and the rectum presses against or prolapses into the vagina. This condition may create a bulge that is more noticeable during a bowel movement.
- Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus drops into the vaginal canal. There are three degrees of prolapse:
- First-degree uterine prolapse - where the bottom portion of the uterus enters the vaginal canal
- Second-degree uterine prolapse - where the uterus enters the lower portion of the vagina
- Third-degree uterine prolapse - where the uterus protrudes through the vaginal opening
- Vaginal vault prolapse occurs when the upper portion of the vagina drops toward the vaginal opening.
Can Pelvic Organ Prolapse be repaired?
With rare exception, the answer is yes.
Why do women have a Pelvic Organ Prolapse repaired?
For women experiencing pelvic organ prolapse, many find the quality of their life has diminished. A prolapse can contribute to urinary leakage, fecal seepage, a weak bladder, painful sex, inability to have vaginal intercourse, and pelvic pain. We will work with you to provide treatment that meets your individual needs.
More about the surgical repair of Pelvic Organ Prolapse:
Dr. Melvin Ashford, the founder of Minnesota Women's Care, is board-certified in Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery (URPS). (Formerly Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery – FPMRS.) This means he has the training and experience for the specific diagnosis and surgical repair of pelvic organ prolapse and other pelvic organ disorders.
Here's what's important to know in Dr. Ashford's words:
"We offer non-surgical and surgical treatment for symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse. The approach is individualized dependent upon the patient’s symptoms, anatomic defect, surgical history and the patient’s personal opinions."
We can help.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, we're here and ready to be of assistance to you. If you have been diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse and are seeking a second opinion on next steps, we welcome your call and visit. Talk with us about your concerns. To schedule an appointment with one of our providers, please call us at 612-326-3384. Get started on finding relief.
