Pelvic Organ Prolapse Specialist

Pelvic prolapse is a condition where an organ in the pelvic area drops out of its normal position. Some of the organs that may prolapse include the uterus, the top of the vagina, the bladder, rectum, or even part of the small intestine.

Most pelvic prolapses are mild with the organ only slightly descending and not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, if the prolapse is severe women may notice a bulge at or past the vaginal opening. Other symptoms may include feeling full or heavy in the pelvic area, aching in the lower abdomen, pain or discomfort during sex, or having trouble urinating or passing stool. The doctor can diagnose a pelvic prolapse during an annual pelvic exam during the annual well-woman visit.

Treatment for a pelvic prolapse depends on the severity of the condition. Women who have only mild prolapses may only need to have regular checkups and pelvic exams to ensure that the prolapse isn’t becoming more severe. Other women may benefit from using a pessary. A pessary is a small device that is inserted into the vagina to help to hold the pelvic organs in place. Women may also be advised to practice Kegel exercises. Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor and can help hold the pelvic organs in place. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the prolapse. Surgery may involve reconstruction of the pelvic floor, the placement of supportive mesh devices, or in some cases, closing off the vagina to prevent prolapse organs from exiting the body. Reconstructive surgery may include fixation or suspension using the patient’s own tissues or surgical mesh. Other procedures include sacrocolpopexy and colporrhaphy. Whenever possible, the surgery is completed with minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy.

Seeing an experienced Urogynecologist, a doctor who has expertise in both gynecology and the female urinary tract, is very important for people who suffer from bladder infections. The treatment often starts with finding the “root cause” of the condition followed by the prescription of medications such as oral antibiotics. The antibiotics are typically the best way to kill the bacteria that has invaded the bladder. Patients who have pain or burning may also need other medications that address those symptoms. It is of paramount importance to perform objective testing such as urine cultures before rushing to the treatment phase of management.