What If Home Treatment For Pelvic Organ Prolapse Fail?
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when organs like the uterus, bladder, or rectum drop and push against the vaginal walls. It can be uncomfortable and even lead to problems like trouble urinating or constipation. Home treatments like pelvic exercises, often called Kegels, are usually the first steps doctors recommend for treatment.
What the Medical Committee Says
The medical committee suggests that lifestyle changes can be helpful, but they don’t have solid research to back it up entirely. The idea is that losing weight, managing constipation, and avoiding heavy lifting could reduce pressure in your abdomen and maybe help the prolapse symptoms. The advice is likely not harmful and could improve the experience of women dealing with prolapse.
Costs and Effectiveness
There wasn’t much data on whether lifestyle changes specifically help pelvic organ prolapse or are cost-effective. However, the committee did note that such advice doesn’t really add extra costs to healthcare and may even have other health benefits, like reducing the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
What Happens if Home Treatments Fail?
If you’ve tried home treatments and they haven’t worked, you generally have two main options.
Option 1: Vaginal Pessary
A vaginal pessary is a silicone device inserted into your vagina. It helps to prop up the drooping organs, providing relief from discomfort. Pessaries come in different shapes and sizes, so you’d work with a healthcare provider to find the right fit for you. Some women experience side effects like bleeding, discomfort, or discharge.
Option 2: Surgery
If a pessary isn’t doing the trick or isn’t something you want to use, surgery could be the next step. There are various surgical procedures available, depending on the severity and location of your prolapse. Risks associated with surgery include bleeding, the prolapse coming back, or damage to other organs.
Making the Decision
Doctors will usually discuss various treatment options with you, considering things like your age, other health conditions you might have, and your personal preferences. The idea is to give you a well-rounded view so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you.
So, if home treatments don’t work, you’ve got options. The pessary could offer a non-surgical solution, or surgery might provide a more permanent fix, albeit with some risks. Either way, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider for a personalized treatment plan.
References:
What to do about pelvic organ prolapse – Harvard Health
Are you living with pelvic prolapse (POP)? | Top Doctors
