(Pelvic Floor Relaxation)
Definition
Definition
Vaginal prolapse is the inward and downward bulging of the vaginal walls. The severity of vaginal prolapse may be defined as:
- First degree—collapse into the upper part of the vagina
- Second degree—collapse further into the vaginal canal, down to the level of the vaginal opening
- Third degree—collapse that extends beyond the opening
Causes
Causes
Vaginal prolapse is caused by weakened support structures in the pelvic region. The lack of support causes the walls of the vagina to weaken, sag, and collapse.
Pelvic Floor Muscles and OrgansCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
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Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Your chances of vaginal prolapse increase with age. Other factors include:
- Multiple vaginal deliveries
- Post-menopause
- Obesity
- Straining caused by chronic cough, constipation, or heavy lifting
- Family history
Symptoms
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Pelvic pressure
- A feeling of vaginal fullness or heaviness
- A feeling of pulling in the pelvis
- Vaginal discomfort
- Urinary urgency and frequency
- Urination when laughing, sneezing, coughing, or exercising
- Constipation
- Difficult or painful intercourse
- Low backache that is relieved with lying down
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Vaginal prolapse that has no symptoms may be diagnosed during routine examinations. You may be referred to a gynecologist, who will do a pelvic exam.
Treatment
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. First or second degree prolapse without symptoms may not require treatment. Treatment options include:
Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises involve tensing the muscles around the vagina and anus, holding for several seconds, then releasing. The repetition of this exercise will help to tone pelvic muscles.
Medications
Estrogen therapy may be advised. This may help prevent further weakness of the pelvic floor.
Pessary Insertion
A pessary may be inserted into the upper portion of the vagina. A pessary is a rubbery, doughnut-shaped device. It helps to prop up the uterus and bladder. Pessary placement is more often used in older women.
Surgery
Vaginal prolapse that is severe or associated with lasting symptoms may require surgery. Surgery may involve repairing the pelvic floor structure or, in some cases, to suture the vagina.
Prevention
Prevention
To help reduce your chance of vaginal prolapse:
- Do Kegel exercises.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- To avoid constipation, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit. Smoking may cause chronic coughing and weakening of connective tissues.
- Limit heavy lifting.
RESOURCES:
Office on Women’s Health http://www.womenshealth.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada http://www.sogc.org
References:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated March 10, 2014. Accessed March 18, 2014.
Pelvic organ prolapse. International Urogynecological Association website. Available at:
http://c.ymcdn.com/sites/www.iuga.org/resource/resmgr/Brochures/eng_pop.pdf
Accessed April 22, 2013.
Uterine and vaginal prolapse. The Merck Manual Professional Edition. Available at:
http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology_and_obstetrics/pelvic_relaxation_syndromes/uterine_and_vaginal_prolapse.html
Updated December 2013. Accessed March 18, 2014.
Vaginal pessary. American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/drugs-procedures-devices/procedures-devices/vaginal-pessary.html
Updated August 2010. Accessed April 22, 2013.
5/11/2009 DynaMed’s Systematic Literature Surveillance
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed:
Fritel X, Varnoux N, Zins M, Breart G, Ringa V. Symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse at midlife, quality of life, and risk factors. Obstet Gynecol. 2009;113:609-616.
Last Updated: 3/18/2014