pelvic organ prolapse

At Virginia Women's Center, we hope to provide our patients with the most comprehensive women's health care possible. In addition to routine gynecologic care, we are proud to be able to offer exceptional treatment to the vast number of women who experience pelvic organ prolapse.

what is pelvic organ prolapse?

Please read this important notice from Dr. Louis Thompson regarding the recent warning from the FDA about the risks and complications associated with the use of transvaginal mesh for pelvic organ prolpase repair.

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the connective tissue of the pelvic floor muscle is weakened allowing one or more of the organs in the pelvis to drop down. In some women, this downward descent can result in the protrusion of the vagina, uterus or both.

Pelvic organ prolapse affects approximately half of the women who have had children by vaginal delivery. Other factors that can contribute to prolapse include advancing age, obesity, hysterectomy, chronic straining and abnormalities of the connective tissue.

symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse

The following is a list of symptoms that often accompany pelvic organ prolapse:

  • A sense or pressure of heaviness in the vagina
  • Sensation of or seeing a bulge or protrusion in the vagina
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Pain, pressure or constipation
  • Pain during sexual intercourse

 

Be assured that if you are experiencing some or all of the above symptoms, you are not alone in your situation.

Speaking to your physician or nurse practitioner about your symptoms is the first and most important step in the process. From there, he or she will be able to better evaluate your situation and when needed, refer you to Louis Thompson, M.D. who specializes in urogynecology at Virginia Women's Center. He, along with Lonny Green, M.D. of Virginia Women's Continence Center, practice at our John Rolfe location.

Approximately half of the patients that are treated by Dr. Thompson for pelvic organ prolapse are treated in combination with Virginia Women's Continence Center. Together, Drs. Thompson and Green have helped numerous women find solutions to restore their quality of life.

types of pelvic organ prolapse

Click on each type of prolapse for additional information on the condition.

  • Cystocele
    Cystocele occurs when the upper vaginal wall sinks downward allowing the bladder to drop with it.

  • Rectocele
    Rectocele occurs when the lower vaginal wall loses support allowing the rectum to bulge upward.

  • Enterocele
    Enterocele occurs when the intestines bulge downward into the top of the vagina.

  • Uterine prolapse
    Uterine prolapse occurs when the top of the vagina weakens allowing the uterus to drop.

  • Vaginal vault prolapse
    Vaginal vault prolapse occurs in women who have had a hysterectomy. The top of the vagina weakens allowing the vaginal apex to drop.

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    treatment options

    Non-surgical options:

    • Diet and fitness routine
  • Pessary management
    A pessary is a rubber or plastic device which is inserted vaginally and designed to support the pelvic area when in place.

    • Physical therapy

     

    Surgical options available at Virginia Women's Center:

    • Cystocele
    • Rectocele
    • Enterocele
    • Uterine prolpase
    • Vaginal vault prolapse
    • Vaginoplasty
    • Labial and perineal reconstruction

     

    patient testimonials

    Catherine's story: Nurse who "couldn't be happier" after her combination surgery