What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options for Women

Are you worried you might have a pelvic organ prolapse? Many women describe the condition as feeling like they’re “carrying a bowling ball” inside their underwear. The pressure, tugging pain, and discomfort are difficult enough — but the emotional and psychological weight of living with pelvic organ prolapse can feel even heavier.

At Revive PT & Pilates in Encinitas, we help women of all ages find relief from pelvic floor dysfunction, including prolapse, so they can feel strong, confident, and in control again.

What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) happens when one or more of your pelvic organs — such as the bladder, uterus, bowel, or rectum — drop from their normal position and bulge into or outside of the vaginal canal (or in some cases, the anus).

This condition is surprisingly common but often misunderstood. Some women have severe symptoms, while others only discover prolapse by surprise during a Pap Smear or when they notice a bulge.

Common symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse include:

• A heavy or dragging sensation in the pelvis

• A bulge or lump inside or outside the vagina

• Painful sex

• Low back pain

• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder

• Constipation or difficulty with bowel movements

  Pelvic Organ Prolapse is most likely to occur when the pelvic floor muscles have become weakened. They're no longer able to hold the pelvic organs in place effectively. Some genetic conditions and inherited connective tissue disorders can cause this muscle weakness, such as Benign Hypermobility Syndrome, Ehlers-Danos Syndrome (EDS), or Marfan Syndrome. But these conditions are rare.In most cases, pelvic floor weakness results from wear and tear, hysterectomy, or vaginal childbirth, particularly in long labors, difficult births, and large babies. It may also stem from excess weight, repetitive strain, heavy lifting, bowel resection, gynecological cancers, other abdominal surgeries, or even chronic constipation. In other words, anything that puts prolonged pressure on the abdomen and pelvic organs.

Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

There are several different forms of prolapse, each with unique characteristics:

• Cystocele (Bladder Prolapse): The bladder bulges into the vaginal wall.

• Rectocele: The rectum bulges forward into the vaginal wall.

• Uterine Prolapse: The uterus slips down into the vaginal canal.

• Vaginal Vault Prolapse: The top of the vagina drops after a hysterectomy.

• Enterocele: The small intestine pushes into the vaginal space.

• Urethrocele: The urethra drops down into the vaginal wall, often with bladder prolapse.

Because symptoms overlap, proper diagnosis is critical for effective treatment.

What Causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues weaken. This weakness reduces their ability to support pelvic organs.

Common causes include:

• Vaginal childbirth (especially long or difficult labors)

• Menopause and hormonal changes

• Hysterectomy or gynecological surgery

• Chronic constipation and straining

• Repetitive heavy lifting or high-impact exercise

• Obesity or excess abdominal pressure

• Connective tissue disorders (such as Ehlers-Danlos or Marfan Syndrome)

Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse Fixable?

Yes — and it’s important to know that prolapse doesn’t go away on its own. It typically worsens over time if left untreated.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

For mild to moderate cases, surgery is not always necessary. Many women find lasting relief through:

• Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Targeted therapy to strengthen and coordinate pelvic floor muscles.

• Therapeutic Pilates: Builds core stability and relieves pelvic pressure.

• Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, avoiding heavy lifting, and managing constipation.

• Hormone therapy: Vaginal estrogen can help postmenopausal women with related symptoms.

• Vaginal pessaries: Medical devices inserted to provide additional support. 

Surgical Treatment Options

For more severe cases, surgery may be recommended, such as prolapse repair or hysterectomy. While surgery can help, it involves downtime, potential risks, and is usually a last resort after non-invasive treatments.

Why Work With Revive PT & Pilates?

At Revive PT & Pilates in Encinitas, we specialize in women’s pelvic health and non-surgical solutions for pelvic organ prolapse. Our experienced physical therapists use a unique blend of pelvic floor therapy and Pilates-based movement to:

• Reduce pressure and bulging sensations

• Restore pelvic floor strength and function

• Improve bladder and bowel control

• Ease pain during sex

• Help women regain confidence and return to the activities they love

Don’t Suffer in Silence — Get Help Today

Pelvic organ prolapse can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With the right treatment, you can find relief, avoid surgery, and reclaim your confidence.

👉 That’s why we offer all new patients a free 30-minute Discovery Call with one of our Women’s Health Specialists. During this call, you’ll:
✔ Talk confidentially about your symptoms
✔ Get expert answers to your personal questions
✔ Learn about customized treatment options designed for you

Click here to book your free Discovery Call today and take the first step toward healing from pelvic organ prolapse.