Pelvic prolapse is a condition that usually doesn’t go away without treatment. The well-practiced providers at Louisiana Women’s Healthcare address prolapse with medication, vaginal appliances, and surgery. If you’re looking for a gynecologist to treat your prolapse in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, contact the clinic online or over the phone.
Pelvic prolapse results when one of the pelvic organs slips out of its natural position, usually protruding into the vaginal canal. This happens when the pelvic muscles and connective tissues that hold your organs in place weaken or fail.
Any of the following pelvic organs can slip out of place and cause prolapse:
What Causes Prolapse?Numerous events or injuries can cause the connective tissue and pelvic floor muscles to loosen.
Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth are the primary cause of pelvic prolapse in women. Carrying and delivering a baby places considerable pressure on the pelvic floor muscles.
Repeated heavy lifting, excess weight, and strained bowel movements can also place enough pressure on the muscles to cause prolapse. The pelvic floor muscles naturally weaken and prolapse as a result of menopause and the aging process as well.
Pelvic prolapse doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms. Some women notice that an organ is bulging out of their vagina. Your doctor must perform a pelvic exam to make a pelvic prolapse diagnosis.
Signs that you might have a prolapsed pelvic organ include:
You may be able to try a few strategies to improve your symptoms at home, such as pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) and bladder training. Your doctor can also provide a pessary, a vaginal insert that provides pelvic support.
If more conservative approaches don’t work, you may need surgery to repair your prolapse. Surgeries for pelvic prolapse include:
If you’re looking for a gynecologic surgeon in Baton Rouge to treat pelvic prolapse, contact Louisiana Women’s Healthcare online or over the phone.
