Vaginal prolapse

What is vaginal prolapse?

A vaginal prolapse is a condition in which the pelvic organs (womb, bladder, bowel) may bulge into the vagina due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and torn tissue which is supposed to hold then in place.

You may experience bulging into the vagina, especially after prolonged standing; you may experience constipation or incomplete bladder emptying. Sometimes a vaginal prolapse may be associated with achy pelvic pain.

How does vaginal prolapse happen?

Muscles and tissues can get damaged due to childbirth, heavy lifting, chronic coughing, constipation, fibroids or other pelvic tumours, obesity, genetic factors.

How is vaginal prolapse diagnosed?

Your doctor will make a diagnosis by looking into the vagina with a speculum, and demonstrate a prolapse by asking you to cough or bear down.

How is vaginal prolapse treated?

• Lifestyle changes: weight loss, smoking cessation, treatment of chronic cough, dietary changes, avoidance of heavy lifting.
• Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.
• Vaginal pessaries: small plastic or silicone support device placed in vagina to provide support to pelvic organs. These can be fitted in the consulting rooms.
• Surgical repair of torn or stretched pelvic floor support tissue.