Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Everyone has one, right?!

YES. YES. YES. 👏👏

Okay, not literally, right? Not EVERYONE has a prolapse, but hear me out, because this is the most legit thing I have ever heard from an OBGYN… 😳

I truly believe that pelvic organ prolapse is more common than we think and VASTLY under-diagnosed. As a women's health and pelvic floor physical therapist, I'm here to empower you with the knowledge you need to take control of your health and wellness.

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs (i.e. your bladder, rectum or uterus) drop lower than their normal positions. This often occurs after childbirth or years of constipation and weight lifting. Sometimes they’re even visible outside of your body! 😰

The Under-Diagnosis Problem

Often, a mild-moderate prolapse won’t be detected unless a thorough internal evaluation is performed, and guess what? That doesn’t typically happen!

❎ At your 6-week follow-up after having a baby, you likely won’t get this exam (or at least not as thorough!).

❎ At your annual/biannual GYN appointment, you still might not get this exam.

❎ Even if you ASK to be checked for a prolapse, you might not get a thorough exam OR your prolapse might not be evident that day 😡

It is not uncommon to have your prolapse visible one moment, and completely gone the next – they are truly mysterious situations!

Empowering Mindset: Assume You Have a Prolapse

So what does this mean for you? Everyone has a prolapse until proven otherwise!!!

If you follow this mindset and treat your body as if you have a prolapse, you will ultimately PREVENT yourself from creating one, or prevent whatever existing prolapse you already have from getting worse!

Take Control of Your Health

Here's the inspiring part: You have the power to protect your pelvic health. You don't have to wait for a diagnosis or for someone else to tell you what's going on inside your body. Be proactive and listen to your body's whispers.

1. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Incorporate pelvic floor exercises into your daily routine. Strengthening these muscles can provide crucial support to your pelvic organs.

2. Posture Matters: Pay attention to your posture. Sitting and standing with good posture can reduce the pressure on your pelvic floor.

3. Lifestyle Choices: Be mindful of your lifestyle choices. Avoid heavy lifting when possible, and maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your pelvic organs.

4. Seek Professional Guidance: Don't hesitate to consult a pelvic floor physical therapist. They can guide you on proper techniques and exercises to support your pelvic health.

5. Self-Care: Make self-care a priority. Reducing stress and ensuring you get adequate rest can benefit your overall health and pelvic well-being.

Remember, knowledge is power, and taking control of your pelvic health can make a significant difference in your life. You are the captain of your ship, and with the right knowledge and mindset, you can navigate the waters of pelvic health confidently.

So, let's embrace the mindset that we're all in this together. Assume you have a prolapse, take steps to protect your pelvic health, and encourage those around you to do the same. Your body is resilient, and with the right care, it can thrive. 💪💕