Concerned or suspect you might have pelvic organ prolapse? Here's what you need to know.
21 June 2021
| Last updated on 23 June 2021June is Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Awareness month in many places around the world.
Pelvic organ prolapse is a common problem that affects many women. While prolapse is not a life-threatening condition, it will not go away if you ignore it. Help is available and you should seek it.
Here are your next steps if you suspect you might be experiencing this condition while in Dubai and the UAE.
What is a Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
The pelvic organs consist of the uterus, vagina, bowel, and bladder. A prolapse of these organs refers to the bulging or herniation of one or more of these organs.
What causes a Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and ligaments (a network of supporting tissue) that hold these organs in their correct positions become weak.
Things that can press down on your pelvic organs and lead to prolapse are:
- Pregnancy and child birth.
- Chronic cough.
- Heavy lifting.
- Constipation/straining.
What are the signs and symptoms of a pelvic prolapse?
There are a few symptoms that may suggest you have a prolapse, but they depend on the type of prolapse you have and its severity.
Early on, if your prolapse is mild your doctor may notice it during a pelvic exam or pap smear, even if you are not aware of it.
When the prolapse is more severe, you may experience:
- A heavy dragging feeling in the vagina or lower back.
- A feeling of a lump in or outside the vagina.
- Urinary symptoms such as slow urinary stream, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, urinary frequency or an urgent desire to pass urine, and/or urinary stress incontinence.
- Bowel symptoms, such as difficulty moving the bowel or a feeling of not emptying properly, or needing to press on the vaginal wall to empty the bowel.
What should you do?
If you believe you might be experiencing pelvic organ prolapse, speak to your Gynecologist.
He or she may examine you to assess if you have a prolapse, what type of prolapse you have, and offer treatment options that are tailored to your needs.
Treatments available in Dubai for pelvic organ prolapse
Every treatment plan is individualized, and treatment can come in the form of lifestyle modifications, pelvic floor exercises, vaginal pessaries, or surgical options.
To consult a doctor, simply call the number below or press 'Click to Contact'.
Compiled By Dr. Labib Riachi.