What is pelvic organ prolapse?
What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic health is an essential, but often overlooked, part of wellness. One of the most common conditions and least talked about is Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) — a condition that can impact daily life, confidence and overall well-being.
The good news is there are effective, non-surgical options - such as pelvic physical therapy - that can help you reduce symptoms and help you feel better.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs —bladder, uterus, rectum, or small intestine — shift out of place and press into the vaginal wall. This happens when the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues are stretched and weakened.
Risk factors for developing POP
● Chronic constipation or straining
● Genetics
● Heavy lifting
● Menopause
● Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth
It is a myth that POP affects only older women. In fact, it can occur if you are in your twenties or thirties - for example after childbirth, high-impact exercise or pelvic trauma.
🌿 You’re not alone
Often times women suffer in silence due to the stigma attached to POP, or lack of awareness about the condition. If you're experiencing pelvic pressure, a bulging sensation, discomfort or urinary/bowel changes your symptoms are real.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But there are many effective treatments:
● Pelvic floor physical therapy
● Pessaries (vaginal support devices)
● Lifestyle and posture modifications
● Surgical intervention (for advanced cases)
🔍 Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse:
Understanding the type of prolapse you're experiencing is the key to getting correct care. Prolapse types are:
● Cystocele (Bladder Prolapse) -the bladder bulges into the front vaginal wall. May cause urinary urgency, leaking or pressure.
● Enterocele (Small Bowel Prolapse)-the small intestine pushes into the vaginal wall - common post-hysterectomy.
● Rectocele (Rectal Prolapse) -the rectum pushes into the back vaginal wall. Can cause constipation or incomplete bowel movements.
● Uterine Prolapse - the uterus descends into or even beyond the vaginal opening. Often feels like something is “falling out.”
● Vaginal Vault Prolapse -occurs after hysterectomy when the top of the vaginal canal loses support and begins to sag.
🧘 ♀️Pelvic physical therapy can help
Pelvic PT is a non-invasive and personalized therapy designed to:
● strengthen pelvic floor muscles
● teach proper body mechanics and pressure management
● improve posture, core coordination and breathing
● alleviate symptoms like heaviness, leaking or pain
● empower you with tools to stay active and confident
Physical therapy doesn't just treat symptoms, it addresses the root cause, helping you gain control and improve your quality of life.
🛠️Tools and techniques for POP support
● Pessaries - small, removable devices inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs. They’re ideal for non-surgical relief, especially during pregnancy, postpartum or while awaiting surgery.
● Poise Impressa - disposable insert that lifts the urethra and offers temporary support for mild POP or stress incontinence — especially useful during exercise.
● Splinting - self-help technique for managing rectocele symptoms during bowel movements. It involves using your fingers to support the vaginal wall or perineum and reduce straining.
● Hypopressives - series of low-pressure breathing and postural exercises designed to reduce intra-abdominal pressure. They can help reflexively engage the pelvic floor for those who can’t tolerate traditional Kegels or core exercises.
✨ The bottom line - healing is possible
POP is common — but it's not something you have to live with. Whether you're newly postpartum, years into menopause, or somewhere in between, pelvic physical therapy offers a safe, supportive space to heal and feel whole again.
💬 Ready to get started?
You deserve expert care…to feel comfortable, confident and strong. If you’re experiencing symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse or want to learn more about prevention and treatment, call Solstice Physiotherapy at 929-269-2505 or email us to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your concerns and learn about how we may be able to help improve your quality of life.