Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Awareness Month - June

Hello all, June is here and it’s Pelvic Organ Prolapse Awareness Month - shining a light on an important topic: Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP). This month is about raising awareness, promoting education, and providing support to those affected by this common condition.

If you have any concerns please, please go and see a women’s health physiotherapist. There will be one local to you. I know there are many in Yorkshire and surrounding areas which can be found through The Mummy MOT.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken or stretch, causing one or more of the organs (such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum) to descend into the vaginal area. It affects countless individuals, often causing discomfort and impacting their quality of life.

During Pelvic Organ Prolapse Awareness Month, the aim is to break the silence and stigma surrounding this condition and offer support, knowledge and resources to those affected. 

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) can be caused by a combination of factors that weaken or damage the supportive tissues and muscles of the pelvic floor. Here are some common causes and contributing factors:

1️⃣ Pregnancy and childbirth: The process of pregnancy and vaginal childbirth can place significant strain on the pelvic floor. The stretching and weakening of the pelvic muscles and tissues during pregnancy, as well as the pressure exerted during delivery, can contribute to POP later in life.

2️⃣ Aging: As a person ages, the supportive structures of the pelvic floor naturally weaken and lose elasticity. This gradual deterioration can increase the risk of POP.

3️⃣ Hormonal changes: Reduced levels of oestrogen during menopause can lead to a decrease in collagen production, causing a loss of tissue strength and elasticity in the pelvic area.

4️⃣ Chronic coughing or straining: Conditions such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, or constipation can involve repetitive coughing or straining, which can put increased pressure on the pelvic floor and contribute to the development of POP.

5️⃣ Obesity and excessive weight: Carrying excess weight can put additional stress on the pelvic floor muscles and tissues, potentially increasing the risk of POP.

6️⃣ Connective tissue disorders: Certain connective tissue disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome, can affect the strength and integrity of the tissues in the pelvic area, making individuals more susceptible to POP.

7️⃣ Heavy lifting or strenuous physical activities: Engaging in activities that involve repetitive heavy lifting, straining, or high-impact movements can place excessive stress on the pelvic floor, potentially leading to prolapse.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) can manifest with various symptoms and signs. Here are some common ones to be aware of:

1️⃣ Sensation of pelvic pressure or heaviness: Individuals with POP may experience a feeling of pressure or heaviness in the pelvic region, often described as something "falling out" or as if there is a bulge in the vagina.

2️⃣ Vaginal discomfort or pain: Some people with POP may experience discomfort or pain in the vaginal area, especially during activities such as walking, standing, or sexual intercourse.

3️⃣ Urinary symptoms: POP can impact the bladder, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, leakage of urine (urinary incontinence), or difficulty fully emptying the bladder.

4️⃣ Bowel symptoms: Depending on the extent of the prolapse, individuals may experience changes in bowel movements, including constipation, difficulty emptying the bowels, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

5️⃣ Backache or lower abdominal pain: POP can cause discomfort in the lower back or abdomen, which may be persistent or intermittent.

6️⃣ Sexual dysfunction: Some individuals with POP may experience sexual difficulties, including pain during intercourse or a decreased sensation.

7️⃣ Visible bulge in the vaginal area: In more advanced cases, a bulge may be visible or palpable at the opening of the vagina. This bulge corresponds to the descent of one or more pelvic organs.

It's important to remember that symptoms can vary from person to person, and some individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms at all. If you suspect you may have pelvic organ prolapse or are experiencing any of these signs, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide an accurate diagnosis and discuss appropriate treatment options.

By spreading awareness, we can help individuals recognise signs and symptoms of POP, encouraging them to seek medical advice. Knowledge is power, and early intervention can make a significant difference. 

Join me live online at Goldster for my course - Yoga for Pelvic Floor Health and Incontinence where I discuss pelvic organ prolapse and other topics around pelvic floor health. Also, it seems very fitting that I am starting the next 6 week block of Postnatal Yoga this week at Om is where the heart is (West Yorkshire), encouraging postpartum rehabilitation - yes, pelvic floor exercises will be featuring.

Bye for now, Virginia x