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Overview
Pelvic Organ Prolapse develops when one or more pelvic organs shift downward from their normal position due to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and supporting connective tissues. The pelvic floor acts as a supportive system that maintains organs such as the bladder, uterus, rectum, and upper part of the vagina in place. When these muscles and tissues lose strength, the organs they support may gradually move toward the vaginal canal. Common symptoms include pelvic pressure, vaginal bulging, and urinary or bowel problems. Risk factors may include childbirth, aging, menopause, and obesity. Diagnosis usually involves a pelvic examination and imaging tests, while treatment may include pelvic floor exercises, supportive devices, or surgery, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse can depend on the severity of the prolapse and which organs are affected. Some women may not notice symptoms in the early stages, while others may experience persistent discomfort.
Common symptoms include:
- A feeling of pelvic pressure or heaviness
- A vaginal bulge or sensation of tissue protruding from the vagina
- Lower back discomfort
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Urinary problems, such as leakage or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Frequent urination
- Constipation or difficulty with bowel movements
Symptoms often become more noticeable after prolonged standing, heavy lifting, or physical activity.
Causes and Risk Factors
Pelvic organ prolapse develops when the pelvic floor muscles and supporting ligaments weaken or stretch. Several factors may contribute to this weakening over time.
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth place strain on the pelvic floor muscles
- Aging, which naturally reduces muscle strength and tissue elasticity
- Menopause occurs when declining estrogen levels affect the pelvic tissues.
- Chronic coughing, which increases pressure inside the abdomen
- Long-term constipation or frequent straining
- Obesity, which adds pressure to pelvic structures
- Repeated heavy lifting
- Previous pelvic surgery
These factors may gradually reduce the pelvic floor’s ability to support internal organs.
Complications
Although pelvic organ prolapse is not typically dangerous, untreated cases may lead to complications that affect urinary, bowel, or sexual function.
- Urinary difficulties: Pressure on the bladder or urethra may cause urinary incontinence, difficulty starting urination, or incomplete bladder emptying.
- Recurrent urinary tract infections: When urine remains in the bladder due to incomplete emptying, bacteria may multiply, increasing the risk of recurrent infections.
- Bowel movement problems: If the rectum is involved, patients may experience constipation or difficulty passing stool.
- Vaginal irritation or ulceration: In advanced cases, tissue may protrude outside the vaginal opening, leading to irritation or small sores due to friction.
- Impact on sexual health: Some women may experience discomfort or pain during intercourse, which can affect intimacy and quality of life.
Diagnosis
Doctors typically diagnose pelvic organ prolapse through a pelvic examination and a review of symptoms. During the examination, the doctor evaluates the position of the pelvic organs and the strength of the pelvic floor muscles. Patients may be asked to cough or strain to help determine the extent of the prolapse.
Additional diagnostic tests may include:
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Urodynamic testing to evaluate bladder function
These evaluations help determine the severity of the condition and guide treatment planning.
Treatment Options
Treatment for Pelvic Organ Prolapse is based on the severity of the condition and the extent to which symptoms affect daily life.
In some patients, symptoms may improve with conservative treatment such as pelvic floor exercises or supportive devices. However, when symptoms persist or significantly affect quality of life, surgical treatment may be recommended.
An advanced surgical option is robotic-assisted surgery using the Da Vinci Xi Surgical System. This minimally invasive technology allows surgeons to perform complex pelvic floor procedures with enhanced precision and control.
Benefits of Da Vinci Xi Surgical System include:
- High-definition 3D visualization that provides clearer views of anatomical structures
- Articulating robotic instruments that allow precise and flexible movements
- Smaller incisions, which may help reduce postoperative pain
- Reduced blood loss during the procedure
- Less trauma to surrounding tissues
- Potentially faster recovery compared with traditional open surgery
With improved visualization and surgical precision, robotic-assisted surgery may help support effective treatment and better recovery outcomes for patients with pelvic organ prolapse.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience symptoms that may be related to Pelvic Organ Prolapse, it is important to seek medical evaluation. Early detection and diagnosis can help prevent worsening of the condition and allow doctors to recommend appropriate treatment options.
You should consider seeing a doctor if you notice:
- A feeling of pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area
- A visible or palpable bulge in the vaginal area
- Difficulty with urination or bowel movements
- Lower back discomfort or pelvic pain
- Symptoms that interfere with quality of life
At the Women’s Health Center at Vejthani International Hospital, experienced gynecologists and multidisciplinary specialists provide advanced treatment for patients with Pelvic Organ Prolapse and other pelvic floor disorders. The center delivers comprehensive evaluations, precise diagnosis, and individualized treatment plans designed to meet each patient’s needs. Supported by advanced diagnostic technology and modern treatment techniques, the medical team focuses on restoring pelvic support, relieving symptoms, and enhancing overall quality of life.
FAQ
Who is at risk of developing Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Women who have experienced multiple vaginal deliveries may be at greater risk of pelvic organ prolapse. Factors such as aging, menopause, obesity, chronic constipation, and activities that increase abdominal pressure, including heavy lifting or persistent coughing, may also weaken the pelvic floor and increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Is pelvic organ prolapse dangerous?
The condition is usually not life-threatening, but it can affect urinary, bowel, and sexual function if symptoms become more severe.
What are the early signs of pelvic organ prolapse?
Early symptoms may include pelvic pressure, a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen, or a small bulge in the vaginal area.
For more information, please contact
Women’s Health Center, Vejthani international Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 3200, 3204
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888
Medically Reviewed by
DR. CHUTATIP POONSATTA
Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Obstetrics Gynecology - Gynecologic Laparoscopy
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