Prolapse

Prolapse is a difficult diagnosis to deal with. When pelvic floor muscles are not strong enough or have been damaged, bulges into the vagina can occur. Damage is commonly caused by childbirth, illness, or even simply aging.

Cystocele, or the bulging of the bladder can change lifestyles significantly. While some women experience no symptoms, for others it causes a feeling of abdominal pressure, leaky urine and pelvic pain on a daily basis. While requiring surgery in difficult cases, working on strengthening pelvic muscles to reduce the amount of bulge and relieve pressure is highly effective. Often the exploratory and explanatory work a physical therapist can do with the affected woman can help contextualize and pinpoint the source of the cystocele, making it easier to bear. 

Rectocele or bulges of the rectum into the vagina can happen with obesity and childbirth injuries. Linked to chronic pressure and difficulty controlling and finishing bowel movements. Working with a physical therapist can help improve the strength of the muscles and even lessen the bulge. This field has changed the way that gynecology approaches prolapse and gives new treatment options to patients. Even a course of 8 to 12 weeks of exercise and learning with a pelvic floor specialist can show vast improvements.