It is known as genital prolapse or pelvic floor prolapse and although it is not a very frequent pathology, it sometimes affects women who have had a vaginal delivery (especially if there have been several births and the fetuses are large), those who have had some vaginal surgery or suffer from obesity, chronic constipation , genetic factors or advanced age that cause tissue weakness ...
Genital prolapse is the descent of the pelvic organs due to the failure in the supporting structures of the pelvic organs, that is, the pelvic floor. The bladder or rectum falls on the vaginal wall and the uterus descends, occupying the vagina and even sticking the cervix through the vulva in the most severe cases.
Approximately 11% of women will be intervened to solve the pelvic floor prolapse throughout their lives, due to one or the other of the risk factors we have listed at the beginning. The weakening of the pelvic muscles and connective tissues produced by age is the main cause.
Pelvic floor prolapse not only produces a feeling of lump and weight in the area, but can also lead to urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction, chronic pain, defecation problems ...
That is why it is important, as far as possible, to prevent the weakening of the pelvic floor. Which is especially important during pregnancy, as there is a strain and weakening of the muscles of the pelvic area. Therefore, it is recommended to perform Kegel exercises at this stage and also in the postpartum to continue with them.
There are different types of pelvic organ prolapse:
- Cystocele or "fallen bladder": is the most frequent type of prolapse, which occurs when the bladder falls into the vagina.
- Vaginal prolapse: in the case of women who have had a hysterectomy (they no longer have a uterus), it occurs when the upper part of the vagina pushes down and falls on the lower part.
- Rectocele: occurs when the rectum falls into the vagina.
- Uterine prolapse: occurs when the supporting structures that support the uterus are compromised and the uterus falls into the vagina.
- Enterocele: It usually occurs with another type of prolapse and occurs when the small intestine pushes the back of the vagina into the opening.
The treatment of different types of prolapse depends on each woman, the degree of severity and how this condition affects her. In mild cases, a change in habits, the use of a pessary (a rubber or plastic device in the form of a thread placed inside the vagina) may be recommended, but in more severe cases a surgical intervention must be used .
But to prevent pelvic floor prolapseThat is, to avoid weakening the muscles, ligaments and other structures that support the organs of the pelvis, it is best to practice Kegel exercises, lead a healthy lifestyle, be fit and keep obesity at bay.
