The pelvic organs (uterus, bladder, rectum) are like a boat on the water. They are supported by the buoyancy of the water (the pelvic floor muscles, pelvic bones, and the connective tissues). Sometimes those organs begin to sink more deeply into the water and create a vaginal or rectal prolapse.

Sometimes this is imperceptible - especially with minimal prolapses. It is fairly common to have a mild prolapse and this oftentimes has no symptoms.

Sometimes pelvic organ prolapse can be felt or seen:

• Pressure in the vaginal or rectal area

• Difficulty passing urine or stool

• Feeling or seeing tissue coming out of the vagina or rectum

Common contributions to vaginal and rectal prolapse include:

• Multiple childbirths and pregnancies

• Chronic constipation/straining

• History of a connective tissue disorders such as EDS or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders

• Chronic heavy weightlifting

• Loss of pelvic floor muscle tone and strength with age or surgical interventions

Pelvic health physical therapy can address pelvic organ prolapse conservatively by assessing for contributions from the pelvic floor muscles, bowel habits, pelvic nerves, and daily activities. Improving the support system via temporary/permanent pessaries, pelvic floor muscle strength and coordination training, and changing your habits can change and manage prolapse symptoms. Mild prolapses usually are not a concern, but worsening of prolapse can be prevented with physical therapy. Pelvic health PT can also prolong or even prevent the need for pelvic surgery.