What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)?
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition where the pelvic organs drop from their normal position in the pelvis and bulge into the vaginal canal. This occurs because the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues supporting these organs weaken or stretch. It is like a hernia down into the vagina. The prolapse can involve the bladder (cystocele or anterior prolapse), uterus (uterine prolapse), rectum (rectocele or posterior wall prolapse), or the top of the vagina after a hysterectomy (vaginal vault prolapse). Women with POP may experience a feeling of heaviness or pelvic pressure, a visible bulge in the vaginal opening, difficulty urinating or having bowel problems, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. Pelvic discomfort and urinary incontinence are also common symptoms.
What Causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
POP is usually caused by a combination of factors that weaken the pelvic floor muscles and tissues. The most common causes include childbirth, especially vaginal delivery, which can stretch and weaken the pelvic support structures. Aging and menopause also contribute, as the decrease in estrogen levels can cause tissues to lose support. Other risk factors include obesity, chronic coughing, heavy lifting, and a history of pelvic surgery. Genetics may also play a role, as some women are naturally predisposed to weaker pelvic tissues.
Available Treatments for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
At New Jersey Urogyn, we offer a range of treatments to manage and correct pelvic organ prolapse. The treatment plan is customized to each patient’s specific needs and preferences, based on the severity of the prolapse and the patient’s symptoms.
- Pelvic floor physical therapy
- Pessary Fitting: A pessary is a silicone device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs and hold them in place. A non-surgical option that can be effective for women who wish to avoid or delay surgery.
- Robotic Sacrocolpopexy: This minimally invasive surgical procedure uses robotic technology to correct pelvic organ prolapse by suspending the top of the vagina using a thin piece of mesh. This procedure is designed to provide long-term support and prevent further prolapse. It is an excellent option for women who wish to treat prolapse with the most durable and effective surgical repair. Robotic surgery offers reduced recovery time and minimal scarring compared to traditional surgery. This surgical repair treats both uterine and vaginal vault prolapse.
