Vaginal Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Introduction

Vaginal prolapse is a condition where pelvic organs such as the bladder, rectum, cervix, uterus, or vagina descend from their usual position due to weakened support structures. This weakening often occurs with age or after childbirth and can lead to varying degrees of prolapse. Ranging from a minor shift in organ position to a complete protrusion outside the vaginal opening, the impact on quality of life can be significant. This article explores the causes, symptoms, types, and treatment options for vaginal prolapse to provide a comprehensive understanding of this condition.

1.What is meant by vaginal prolapse?

Experts say vaginal prolapse is a condition where pelvic organs such as the bladder, rectum, cervix, uterus, or vagina—can drop below their original position. This happens when the muscles that support your pelvic organs become weak, usually with age or after childbirth. Classified by degrees.

• First-degree prolapse: The limb has moved only a small amount.
• Second degree dilatation: the organs reach the opening of the vagina.
• Third-degree prolapse: The organ may protrude up to one centimeter from the vagina.
• Fourth-degree elongation: Limbs dilate more than one centimeter. In its worst case, the entire length of the vagina can fall below the opening of the vagina, which is called complete prolapse.

2.Symptoms of prolapse

Some women do not experience symptoms and may not even realize they have vaginal prolapse until it is discovered during a pelvic exam. However, if you do experience symptoms, the main symptoms of vaginal prolapse are as follows:

• Feeling of inflammation in the vaginal area
• A feeling of heaviness in the vagina or pelvis
• A feeling of pressure in the vagina or pelvis
• Lower back pain
• Bladder infections

Symptoms Depending on the individual situation, you may feel pressure on the bladder (urinary incontinence) or internal pressure during bowel movements.

3.Types of vaginal prolapse

Different types of vaginal dilatation are classified by which the pelvic organs are lowered

These types include:

• Cystocele: When the bladder protrudes into the vagina.
• Enterocele: When the small intestine protrudes into the back wall of the vagina.
• Rectocele: When the rectum protrudes into the vagina.
• Uterine prolapse: When the uterus protrudes into the vagina.
• Erythrocele: When the urethra dilates into the vagina.

• Vaginal vault prolapses: When the top of the vagina protrudes into the vaginal canal.

4.What causes vaginal enlargement?

“Anything that causes pressure and stress on the normal support structures in the pelvis can cause prolapse. This could be due to childbirth, a chronic cough, constipation, or many other things that can weaken your colon.

Several possible causes and risk factors include:

• Aging: As you age and your pelvic floor muscles weaken, you are more likely to develop pelvic floor dysfunction. It is usually seen in people 60 years of age or older.
• Childbirth: When you have a baby, especially through a vaginal delivery, your pelvic floor can be strained. Having a baby that weighs more than eight and a half pounds further increases your risk. Also, having twins and/or multiple births increases stress and pressure on the pelvic floor, further increasing your risk.
• Menopause: Estrogen drops associated with menopause may increase your risk.
• Surgery: Surgery such as hysterectomies may increase the risk
• Heavy lifting: The strain associated with heavy lifting or other types of intense physical activity can weaken your pelvic floor.
• Chronic pressure on your stomach: This can be caused by chronic pressure during bowel movements due to obesity, chronic cough, or constipation.
• Family history: If you have a family history of pelvic organ prolapse, you may be genetically predisposed to develop it yourself.

5.How to treat vaginal prolapse

Treatment for your vaginal prolapse will depend on how severe it is. Treatment options include:  Pelvic floor physical therapy: You can do certain exercises to help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, such as Kegels. This can be done on your own at home, but seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist can help with further instruction.

5.1 Pessaries

 A pessary is a ring-like device that you insert into your vagina that can help provide structure to hold your pelvic organs in place. It should be fitted by your doctor.

Conclusion

Vaginal prolapse, while often manageable, can significantly affect one’s comfort and daily life. With a range of treatment options available, from pelvic floor physical therapy to pessaries, addressing this condition is both possible and effective. Early recognition of symptoms and understanding the risk factors are crucial for managing and mitigating the impact of vaginal prolapse. If you experience symptoms or are at risk, consult with a healthcare provider to explore the best treatment options for your situation.