Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the uterus or bladder slips down toward the rectum or vagina.

These organs usually slip out of place when the tissues that support them are weakened or damaged. Damage to the supporting tissues may occur as a result of lifting heavy weights, being overweight or obese, or going through several vaginal births. In some cases, severe and chronic constipation may also lead to organ prolapse.

Dr. John Macey regularly treats women suffering from uterine and bladder prolapse at his OB/GYN practice in Nashville, Tennessee. In this blog, he discusses six signs of pelvic organ prolapse and some of the treatment options that are available.

Signs of pelvic organ prolapse

The following are some of the most common signs of this condition:

1. Excessive discharge

Some discharge from the vagina is normal. However, if you notice an increase in the discharge, it could be a sign of an underlying condition. The discharge usually worsens when standing up for prolonged periods and improves after lying down.

2. Bloating and fullness in the abdomen

If an organ slips down, you may feel bloated in your lower abdomen area. Some women also experience gas, a symptom that’s often confused with digestive issues.

3. Back pain and pressure

In the first stage of prolapse, you may feel some mild pressure in your vagina as well as mild back pain. Left untreated, the prolapse may advance and lead to more pressure and pain.

During the later stages, you may also notice tissue protruding from your vaginal opening.

4. Bowel problems

Constipation and the feeling of not completely emptying your bowels may be a sign that either the uterus or bladder is slipping out of place.

5. Urinary difficulties

Stress incontinence — urine leakages caused by sneezing, coughing, or lifting heavy objects — is often a sign of bladder prolapse.

If you’re suffering from bladder prolapse, you may also experience frequent urinary infections and difficulties emptying your bladder. Left untreated, bladder prolapse may obstruct the kidneys.

6. Vaginal bleeding

In moderate to severe stages of organ prolapse, you may also notice some bleeding. This is because the organ that’s protruding through your vagina can get irritated if it comes in contact with your underwear.

Treating pelvic organ prolapse

Severe organ prolapse is fixable thanks to minimally invasive procedures, such as laparoscopy, which allows surgeons to operate on the abdomen and pelvis without making large incisions. With laparoscopy, Dr. Macey can repair the damaged tissues in your pelvic floor to prevent the prolapsed organ from sinking.

If you have a milder case of prolapse, surgical intervention may not be necessary. Instead, you may be able to stop the progression of the prolapse by making a few lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or doing Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.

If you have symptoms that lead you to believe you have a prolapsed organ, Dr. Macey can give you a thorough evaluation and help you get healthy. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with the practice of Dr. John Macey today.