Women's Health

Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Other Prolapse Therapy

In some cases of prolapse, physical therapy such as electrical stimulation and biofeedback may be used to help strengthen the muscles in the pelvis.

• Electrical stimulation: A doctor can apply a probe to targeted muscles within the vagina or on the pelvic floor. The probe is hooked up to a device that measures and delivers small electrical currents that contract the muscles. These contractions help strengthen the muscles. A less intrusive type of electrical stimulation is available that magnetically stimulates the pudendal nerve from outside the body. This activates the muscles of the pelvic floor and may help treat incontinence.
• Biofeedback: A sensor is used to monitor muscle activity in the vagina and on the pelvic floor. The doctor can recommend exercises that the woman can use to strengthen these muscles. In some cases, these exercises may help strengthen the muscles enough to reverse or relieve some symptoms related to prolapse. The sensor can monitor the muscular contractions during the exercises, and the doctor may be able to determine if the targeted muscles would benefit from the exercises.

Next Steps After Prolapse Treatment

After surgery, most women can expect to return to a normal level of activity after one to three months.

Follow-Up Care for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

A woman undergoing treatment for pelvic organ prolapse should schedule follow-up visits with her doctor to evaluate progress. Pessaries need to be removed and cleaned at regular intervals to prevent infection.

Prolapse Prevention

Women at risk for prolapse should avoid heavy lifting, if possible.

Obesity puts extra stress on the muscles and ligaments within the pelvis and vagina. Weight control may help prevent this condition from developing.

Outlook for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is rarely a life-threatening condition. Some cases that are mild can be treated without surgery, and most severe cases of prolapse can be completely corrected with surgery.
 
Prolapse surgery results are usually good, with a low recurrence rate.