PHYSIOCORE | PELVIC HEALTH

Pelvic Organ Prolapse

It doesn't have to be as scary as it sounds.

Understand what's happening in your body, explore your treatment options, and feel confident moving again.

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What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Have you noticed heaviness, pressure, or a bulging sensation in your vagina? Maybe something feels different when you exercise, lift your children, or use the bathroom.

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the muscles and connective tissues supporting your pelvic organs no longer provide adequate support. This allows one or more organs to descend and bulge into the vaginal walls or toward the vaginal opening.

It may sound alarming, but a prolapse diagnosis does not automatically mean surgery is necessary.

There are conservative treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR BODY

Three Common Types of Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse can affect different organs, and more than one type can occur at the same time.

01

Cystocele

Bladder Prolapse

The bladder bulges into the front wall of the vagina.

You might notice:

  • Vaginal heaviness or pressure
  • Difficulty emptying your bladder
  • Urinary urgency or leakage
02

Rectocele

Posterior Vaginal Wall Prolapse

The rectum bulges toward the back wall of the vagina.

You might notice:

  • Difficulty emptying your bowels
  • A sensation of stool getting stuck
  • Needing vaginal or perineal support during bowel movements
03

Uterine Prolapse

Uterus Descending

The uterus descends toward or into the vaginal canal.

You might notice:

  • Pelvic dragging or heaviness
  • A vaginal bulge
  • Pressure after prolonged standing

Important: Symptoms do not always match the degree of prolapse. Some people have significant symptoms with a mild prolapse, while others have few symptoms.

DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR?

Common Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

You may benefit from a pelvic health evaluation if you experience:

  • Heaviness or pressure in the pelvis or vagina
  • A sensation that something is falling out
  • A visible or palpable vaginal bulge
  • Bladder leakage or difficulty emptying your bladder
  • Constipation or difficulty emptying your bowels
  • Symptoms that become more noticeable with standing or activity

These symptoms can have several causes. A qualified medical provider can help determine whether prolapse is involved.

YOUR TREATMENT OPTIONS

How Can Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Help?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is about much more than doing Kegels.

At PhysioCore, we evaluate how your pelvic floor works with your breathing, abdominal muscles, movement patterns, and everyday activities.

01

Muscle Coordination

Improve pelvic floor strength, endurance, relaxation, and coordination based on your needs.

02

Pressure Management

Learn strategies for breathing, lifting, exercise, and reducing unnecessary straining.

03

Return to Movement

Develop an individualized plan for the activities you love, including exercise and strength training.

Treatment may also include bowel and bladder education, lifestyle strategies, and discussion of support options such as vaginal pessaries with an appropriate medical provider.

The goal isn't always to make prolapse disappear. It's to reduce symptoms, improve function, and help you get back to doing the things you love.

LET'S CLEAR SOMETHING UP

Can You Exercise With Prolapse?

One of the biggest misconceptions about prolapse is that you must stop exercising, lifting weights, or running.

That simply isn't true for everyone.

Many women with prolapse can remain physically active. Your physical therapist can help you understand your symptoms, modify activities when necessary, and build toward your individual goals.

Your pelvic floor needs to respond to the demands of everyday life. Our goal is to help you move with confidence rather than fear.

You deserve answers, not just restrictions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Questions We Hear About Prolapse

Does prolapse always require surgery?

No. Many people manage symptoms with conservative treatments, including pelvic floor physical therapy and pessary support. Treatment depends on your symptoms, examination findings, and goals.

Can pelvic floor PT reverse prolapse?

Pelvic floor therapy may improve symptoms, muscle function, and support. However, it cannot guarantee that an anatomical prolapse will disappear completely.

Can I lift weights with prolapse?

Many people can continue lifting with appropriate guidance. Your exercise plan should reflect your symptoms, current capacity, and individual goals.

What happens at my first visit?

We discuss your symptoms, medical history, daily activities, and goals. Your therapist explains the assessment options and develops a personalized treatment plan. An internal examination is considered only when appropriate and with your consent.

PERSONALIZED PELVIC HEALTH CARE

You Deserve to Feel Confident in Your Body

PhysioCore provides one-on-one, in-home pelvic floor physical therapy throughout Northern Virginia and Washington, DC.

No waiting rooms. No commute. Just individualized care in the comfort of your home.

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