Your pelvic floor is a network of muscles and connective tissues that supports all the organs in your pelvis, including your bladder, bowel, and uterus. A strong pelvic floor holds everything in place, but about half of women in the United States have pelvic organ prolapse.
Prolapse occurs when your pelvic floor muscles get too weak to support your pelvic organs. As a result, your uterus begins to descend from its normal position in your pelvis and protrudes into your vagina.
Uterine prolapse isn’t dangerous, but symptoms can be uncomfortable and interfere with your daily life. Fortunately, uterine prolapse is treatable, and our team at ObGyne Birth Center for Natural Deliveries is here to help.
Bola Sogade, MD, specializes in personalized care for uterine prolapse, and she helps women of all ages find the right treatment for their needs.
If you suspect you have uterine prolapse, you might be asking yourself:
Uterine prolapse develops over time. Any woman can experience it, but it’s most common among postmenopausal women who have had at least one vaginal birth. Your risk of prolapse varies depending on your genetics, age, and history of pregnancy and childbirth.
Prolapse isn’t dangerous to your health, but it’s often quite uncomfortable. Symptoms of uterine prolapse can include:
Mild prolapse that doesn’t cause bothersome symptoms may not need treatment. But if you have severe prolapse or your symptoms affect your quality of life, it’s time to find out more about your prolapse treatment options.
Treatments for uterine prolapse range from lifestyle changes to surgery. Dr. Sogade and our team develop a treatment plan for you based on the severity of your condition, your overall health, and your preferences for care.
Many women with mild to moderate prolapse find that nonsurgical treatment relieves their symptoms and improves their quality of life. Options include:
Also known as Kegels, pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen the muscles in your pelvic floor, improve support of your uterus, and minimize your symptoms.
Excess weight puts increased pressure on your pelvic floor muscles. Achieving a healthier weight can help reduce pressure on your pelvic floor muscles and reduce prolapse symptoms.
Straining during bowel movements can increase pressure in your abdomen and worsen uterine prolapse. Eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and using stool softeners can help prevent constipation.
A pessary is a device the doctor inserts into your vagina to support your uterus. This extra support can relieve symptoms and help you live more comfortably.
If nonsurgical treatment isn’t effective or your prolapse is severe, Dr. Sogade may recommend surgery. We specialize in minimally invasive robotic surgery, which offers better results and fewer complications than traditional surgical methods.
Depending on your needs, we may repair the prolapse or perform a hysterectomy. Dr. Sogade discusses your options with you to help you make the best decision for your health.
Prolapse repair generally involves lifting your uterus back into its normal position and reinforcing the tissues of your pelvic floor. Hysterectomy involves removing your uterus, and it may be the best option for you if you have severe prolapse or other uterine problems, like fibroids.
Recovery from uterine prolapse surgery depends on the specific procedure and your general health. You can expect to take several weeks off from work and other activities to allow for healing.
Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments so we can monitor your progress and help you achieve your best possible outcome.
Uterine prolapse is common, but the symptoms don’t have to be permanent. Find help and get a customized treatment plan at ObGyne Birth Center for Natural Deliveries. Call our Forsyth, Georgia, office at 478-887-3506 or book an appointment online today.
