Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and connective tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken overtime, causing one or more organs (bladder, uterus, rectum) to shift downward onto the vaginal wall.

Common Symptoms of Prolapse:

• A sensation of heaviness vaginally.
• A visible or palpable bulge at the vaginal opening.
• Urinary symptoms such as leakage, urgency or incomplete bladder emptying.
• Bowel issues, including constipation or difficulty with evacuation.
• Symptoms worsening after standing for long periods and intense exercise. 
• Symptoms worsen throughout the day or at the end of the day. 

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Many women believe surgery is the only option, but in some cases physiotherapy can significantly improve prolapse symptoms and prevent worsening.

1. Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT):

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can improve support for the pelvic organs, reducing symptoms and the risk of progression. At PPP Cronulla we assess and prescribe tailored exercises, such as:

• Pelvic floor strengthening: Engaging and contracting the pelvic floor muscles correctly.
• Functional training: Activating the pelvic floor during daily movements (lifting, coughing, squatting).

2. Bladder & Bowel Management:

Physiotherapists can provide strategies to address urinary urgency, leakage or constipation, including:

• Avoiding straining during bowel movements.
• Using proper voiding and toileting techniques.

3. Lifestyle & Activity Modifications:

Managing intra-abdominal pressure is key to prolapse management. This includes:

• Avoiding heavy lifting or modifying lifting techniques.
• Managing chronic coughing (linked to increased prolapse risk).
• Using breathing strategies (exhaling during exertion) to reduce downward pressure.

4. Pessary Fittings

A pessary is a medical-grade silicone device inserted into the vagina to provide additional support to the pelvic organs. At PPP Cronulla, our pelvic health physiotherapist, Stephanie Kyrgias is trained in pessary fittings. She will assess whether this is a suitable option.

When to Seek Help

If you experience symptoms of prolapse that interfere with your daily life, consulting a pelvic floor physiotherapist is a great first step. Early intervention can improve symptoms, prevent worsening and support long-term pelvic health.

Would you like to learn more about how physiotherapy can help with prolapse? Reach out today!

Written by Stephanie Kyrgias (Pelvic Health: Physiotherapist)!