If the thought of pelvic organ prolapse surgery is overwhelming, it’s reassuring to know that there are effective non-surgical options available. In fact, many women find effective relief through less invasive methods. It is important for women to know and understand all their treatment options for prolapse, the risks of any proposed treatments, and the likely benefit they might experience.
Non-surgical pelvic organ prolapse treatments
Conservative management is frequently recommended before considering surgical interventions as these options are generally less invasive and can provide symptomatic relief.
Conservative pelvic organ prolapse treatments:
- Pelvic floor exercises: Improving function of pelvic floor muscles helps support your pelvic organs, potentially reducing the symptoms of prolapse.
- Lifestyle changes: Adjusting how you perform daily activities to reduce strain on your pelvic floor can be very beneficial. This includes proper lifting techniques, managing chronic coughing, and managing constipation and repetitive strain.
- Pessaries: These are devices inserted into the vagina to support the organs and provide relief from symptoms including heaviness, bulge, back pain, and urinary concerns
- Hormone therapy: For some women, particularly those in the post-menopausal period, estrogen creams can help improve the quality and health of vaginal tissues and alleviate some symptoms of prolapse.
For women who do require or choose to undergo surgery, physiotherapy can be helpful both before and after the procedure. It plays a role in reducing the risk of the recurrence of prolapse by strengthening the pelvic floor, providing education on and teaching safe exercise practices, and lifestyle adjustments required to maintain long-term pelvic health.
Is non-surgical prolapse treatment for everyone?
Prolapse treatment is highly individual and there’s no one size fits all approach. Each woman has a unique set of circumstances, symptoms, needs, and factors that affect what their treatment might look like. Ultimately, you have the choice about what treatment options you are comfortable proceeding with.
The best way to assess your treatment options is to come into our clinic. We can then provide the best recommendations for your condition – surgery or otherwise.
Don’t delay in pelvic organ prolapse treatment
Without the management of lifestyle factors and treatment, for some women it is possible for the prolapse to worsen which can mean prolapse symptoms become more severe and burdensome over time, reducing your quality of life.
In saying that, it is never too late to seek advice and support in managing prolapse! The team at North West Healthy Women will be able to advise you about what stage you are at and discuss with you the recommended course of treatment, whether that be conservative management with our team or a referral to a gynaecologist for further assessment and treatment. Pelvic organ prolapse is often best managed by a multidisciplinary team and open communication with your GP, gynaecologist, and other care providers is something we value highly.
Pelvic organ prolapse treatment with North West Healthy Women
Living with pelvic organ prolapse doesn’t mean your options are limited to surgery. Our dedicated team of women’s health physios offer effective, non-surgical treatments as well as pre and post-surgery physiotherapy, if required.
From strengthening your pelvic floor through specific exercises to providing supportive devices and lifestyle guidance, we are here to help you improve your symptoms and enhance your overall quality of life.
Don’t let prolapse dictate your quality of life. Reach out to us today to explore how we can support your journey to recovery and empower you to lead a more comfortable and active life.
