Many women with pelvic prolapse may find their condition too embarrassing to discuss with their doctor. Or, they may dismiss their symptoms as a normal part of the aging process. But pelvic prolapse is a treatable condition. At the Center for Urogynecology and Female Pelvic Health in Venice, Florida, John Devine II, MD, an expert urogynecologist, uses advanced tools and techniques to diagnose and treat pelvic prolapse. To schedule a consultation, call the office or request an appointment today.
request an appointmentWhat is pelvic prolapse?
Pelvic prolapse occurs when your pelvic organs fall into your vagina. It happens when the pelvic floor muscles weaken or connective tissues loosen.
Your pelvic floor muscles run horizontally along the lower portion of your pelvic region. These muscles support the pelvic organs, including your uterus, cervix, vagina, and rectum.
Pregnancy, childbirth, and aging may affect the strength and structure of your pelvic floor muscles. When they loosen or weaken, they allow the pelvic organs to fall into or out of your vagina.
What are the types of pelvic prolapse?
The type of pelvic prolapse you have depends on the pelvic organs involved. The types include:
Cystocele
Cystocele is when your bladder falls into or drops out of your vagina. It is the most common type of pelvic prolapse.
Rectocele
When your rectum falls into or out of your vagina, you have a rectocele, also known as a dropped rectum.
Uterine prolapse
Uterine prolapse or dropped uterus means your uterus has fallen into your vagina.
Enterocele
Enterocele is a small bowel prolapse in which a portion of your small intestine falls into your vagina. You may develop an enterocele if you have uterine prolapse.
What are the symptoms of pelvic prolapse?
With pelvic prolapse, you may feel pressure in your vagina or see the organ bulging from the vaginal cavity. You may also experience discomfort during sexual intercourse or other types of physical activity.
Pelvic prolapse may also cause urinary or fecal incontinence.
How is pelvic prolapse diagnosed?
Dr. Devine is a fellowship-trained urogynecologist and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic prolapse. He schedules long appointments for first-time patients and special consultations.
To diagnose pelvic prolapse, he first asks detailed questions about your symptoms. He reviews your medical, surgical, obstetric and gynecological history and conducts a physical and pelvic exam.
He may also perform tests to assess bowel and bladder function, especially if your symptoms include incontinence.
How is pelvic prolapse treated?
Dr. Devine develops customized treatment plans for pelvic prolapse based on type, symptoms, medical history, age, and personal preferences. He talks to you in great detail about your diagnosis and treatment options so you can decide what treatment works best for you.
Treatment may include:
- Pelvic floor muscle therapy
- Diet modifications to alleviate constipation and pressure
- Pessary (a removable device placed in the vagina to support pelvic muscles)
- Non-mesh pelvic reconstruction
Dr. Devine also provides consultations and surgical treatments for women struggling with complications from a prior mesh procedure.
Pelvic prolapse is a treatable condition. For expert care from an experienced urogynecologist, call the Center for Urogynecology and Female Pelvic Health, or request an appointment online.