We have spoken before about how obesity contributes to Pelvic Organ Prolapse and it is important to know what exactly this condition is, and how common it is. Smoking is another major cause.

A ‘Prolapse’ means a falling out of place, and when female pelvic organs such as the uterus fall out of place; usually into or through the vaginal cavity this is known as Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

This is generally seen to occur in older women, particularly those who have had large babies that were delivered vaginally. This is a very common phenomenon; some estimates put it at half the number of all women who have given birth may develop it.

When the prolapse is not advanced and is only minor, performing exercises such as the Kegel’s pelvic floor exercises can help control and arrest the condition.

Sometimes even a complete hysterectomy may be required. Though surgery is seen to be the only solution for prolapse, this can be cause for other complications such as bowel and bladder dysfunction, chronic pain, sexual loss, and emotional devastation.

The symptoms of a pelvic organ prolapse (it may even be the rectum or urinary bladder that may prolapse) are a feeling of pressure on the pelvis or actual organs protruding through the vagina or urinary symptoms.