What Is Urinary Prolapse?
Urinary prolapse, also known as pelvic organ prolapse, occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken, causing one or more of these organs to drop or press into or out of the vagina. This condition often affects the bladder (cystocele), but it can also involve the uterus (uterine prolapse), rectum (rectocele), or small intestine (enterocele). Urinary prolapse is commonly seen in women who have experienced childbirth, particularly multiple or difficult deliveries, and can also result from aging, menopause, obesity, chronic coughing, or heavy lifting.
Symptoms of urinary prolapse can vary depending on the severity of the condition but may include a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis, bulging of tissue from the vagina, urinary incontinence, difficulty emptying the bladder, frequent urinary tract infections, and discomfort or pain during intercourse. Treatment options range from conservative measures like pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle changes, and the use of a pessary (a device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs) to surgical interventions aimed at repairing and reinforcing the weakened tissues. A healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the individual's symptoms and overall health.
