Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is when the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus or bowel) drop down and shift into the vaginal canal. It usually results from weakened pelvic floor muscles.

Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, aging, chronic coughing or constipation can weaken the pelvic floor, reduce the support of the organs and lead to prolapse.

The most common symptoms are a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the vaginal area, urinary incontinence, difficulty using the toilet and pain or discomfort during intercourse.

Pelvic floor exercises can reduce prolapse symptoms and stop it from progressing. They are usually effective for mild to moderate prolapse. Severe cases, however, may need additional intervention. When an intervention is needed, pelvic floor physiotherapy may be required afterward.

Physiotherapy consists of targeted exercises that improve pelvic floor muscle function, biofeedback methods and lifestyle advice. Rehabilitation is planned based on an individual assessment. The goal is to reduce symptoms.

Untreated prolapse usually gets worse over time, affects daily life and may require surgery in severe cases. That is why it helps to get physiotherapy support early on.

Prolapse can come back if the pelvic floor is not adequately supported or if lifestyle factors (such as heavy lifting, chronic constipation or obesity) do not change. Regular pelvic floor physiotherapy lowers the risk of recurrence.