Prolapse
Prolapse is a common condition where the bladder, uterus and/or bowel protrudes into the vagina.
What causes prolapse?
Prolapse is caused by stretching of the ligaments and muscles that support the pelvic organs.
Common risk factors include:
- Pregnancy and childbirth.
- Chronic coughing.
- Heavy or repetitive lifting.
- Constipation and regularly straining on the toilet.
- Excess weight.
Symptoms of prolapse
Signs of a prolapse can include:
- an inability to completely empty the bladder or the bowel when going to the toilet
- straining to get urine flow started, or to empty the bowel
- a slow flow of urine that tends to stop and start
- a sensation of fullness or pressure inside the vagina
- a sensation of vaginal heaviness or dragging pain
- a bulge or swelling felt in the vagina
- bladder or bowel urgency or incontinence
- lower back ache.
Diagnosis
A prolapse is diagnosed by a medical history check and a physical examination.
Management and treatment
Prolapse won’t go away without intervention, but there is a lot you can do to improve the symptoms.
Treatment depends on the severity of the prolapse and how much it interferes with your lifestyle. It can include:
- Lifestyle changes.
- Strengthening pelvic floor muscles.
- Inserting a ring pessary to support the prolapse.
FPT prolapse services
Family Planning Tasmania offers the following prolapse services:
- Assessment – medical history and examination to diagnose prolapse
- Management plan which may include:
- Lifestyle measures
- Medication
- Pessary fitting – insertion of a ring pessary to support the prolapse
- Ongoing pessary care
- Recommendation/referral to pelvic floor physiotherapist
- Referral for surgery
Contact us for an appointment.
Useful information
https://continence.org.au/pages/prolapse.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=122&v=yb_c9rGv_0o&feature=emb_logo
http://www.pelvicfloorfirst.org.au/pages/pelvic-floor-first-app.html

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