POP…There it is!
POP
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Cystocele…Rectocele…Enterocele…
Otherwise known as:
“It felt like I left a tampon in but didn’t”
“I feel a bubble in there when I wash”
“Something in my “f&*^%#” vagina”
“It feels like something is falling out”
“A literal pain in my a$$”
P.O.P. is the descent of the pelvic organs, including the bowels, bladder, vaginal wall or uterus. They can fall out of their respective home, or, more commonly, they can try to fall out through the vagina.
WHAT? WHY? OMG?
No one told you?
Sadly, that’s a pretty common reaction. When clients get to me after noticing a POP it’s usually a crazy story. They were helping someone move, doing lawn work or picking up a kid or grandchild and then POP…there it is.
First, the person tries to see it with a mirror. Then she might take a photo. She might have her partner look. She might get a second opinion from her mom, sister, BFF, Amazon delivery person, etc. She panics and goes to Urgent care or the ER and they go, “Uh, we don’t know, maybe a tumor?!?!”
Eventually she sees her ObGyn who usually says one of two things:
- It’s not so bad, live with it and let me know when you can’t.
- You’ll need surgery, go see the specialist.
There is a 3rd option.
Pelvic Floor PT can help with PROLAPSE!!!!
Why does prolapse happen? Typically, the vaginal tissues thin from childbirth, age and/or hormonal changes. Then the higher pressure from the bladder and bowels push them into the lower pressure system of the vagina and POP…there it is.
How is it diagnosed? A vaginal examination by your ObGyn, UroGyn or a pelvic floor therapist can diagnose prolapse. It is typically diagnosed using the POP-Q and 4 grades of staging.
How does Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy help? PF PT helps to strengthen the pelvic floor. This lifts the pelvic organs and gives them support so they no longer “fall down.” PF PT can also help with lifting, bending and body mechanics to keep things from feeling heavy. There are quite a few “tools” a PF PT has to help women experiencing prolapse.
Does reading this give you a million questions that you’d like answered in the private setting of your home? Do you want someone to explain things in terms you can understand and that are related to your lifestyle? Do you want a personalized program to help you treat your POP to be able forget it is there?
I’m totally here for any and all of that, so reach out for a consulation!
