Vaginal prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs, like the bladder, uterus, or rectum, weaken or stretch. This results in one or more of these organs dropping or pressing into the vagina. Women may experience a bulge or pressure in the pelvic area. It may lead to discomfort or difficulties with urination, bowel movements or sexual activity. This condition is common. Particularly after childbirth or as women age. However, various vaginal prolapse treatments in London can help manage symptoms and enhance quality of life.
Vaginal Prolapse Symptoms
Symptoms of vaginal prolapse include:
- A sense of heaviness around the lower abdomen and genitals
- Experiencing discomfort or numbness during sex
- Feeling like you are sitting on a small ball
- Noticing lumps or bulges in the vagina
- Feeling discomfort inside the vagina
- Suffering from urinary incontinence
These symptoms may fluctuate during the day and become more apparent as the day progresses. However, they can also differ daily and vary between individuals. Therefore, you must inquire if you notice any of these symptoms.
Types of Prolapse
- Posterior Wall Prolapse: Part of the bowel pushes into the wall of the vagina. If the small bowel bulges into the upper wall of the vagina, it is called an enterocele. If the end of the large intestine pushes against the back of the vaginal wall, it is called a rectocele.
- Urethrocele: This type of prolapse happens when the urethra, the tube that carries urine, falls out of place.
- Cystocele (Anterior Prolapse): This occurs when the bladder slips into the vagina.
- Vaginal Vault Prolapse: After a hysterectomy, the top of the vagina can sag down.
Is Vaginal Prolapse Common?
Determining the exact number of people who experience vaginal prolapse is challenging since many do not discuss it with their doctors, physiotherapists or friends.
Some individuals might have a vaginal prolapse without any noticeable symptoms. Among women who have had children, one in three will suffer from prolapse. And about half of women over the age of 50 will experience some symptoms of vaginal prolapse.
Causes of Vaginal Prolapse
Vaginal prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs become weakened. Several factors contribute to this condition:
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Certain health conditions
- Ageing and menopause
- Previous hysterectomy
- Being overweight
- Heavy lifting
If you suspect you might have a prolapse, contact a private gynaecologist in London for advice, support and a treatment plan. They can accurately diagnose your condition and provide both treatment and reassurance.
How can you help improve symptoms of vaginal prolapse?
You can alleviate and improve symptoms of vaginal prolapse through rehabilitation and simple lifestyle changes. Here are some steps to consider:
- Engage in Low-Impact Exercise: Participate in activities like Pilates, yoga, cycling, or swimming. Gradually introduce higher-impact exercises with guidance from a pelvic health physiotherapist to strengthen your pelvic floor and manage symptoms as your activity level increases.
- Consult a Gynaecologist: Schedule an appointment for a thorough assessment and personalised rehabilitation plan. It includes a complete body evaluation and, with your consent, a vaginal examination to tailor treatment to your specific needs and goals.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Fibre: Drink 1.5 to 2 litres of fluid daily and include fibre to prevent constipation. When using the toilet, avoid straining. Position your knees higher than your hips, keep your feet relaxed on a stable surface, and lean forward with a straight back.
- Monitor Symptom Fluctuations: Be mindful that symptoms may worsen during your period, after prolonged standing, or at the end of a busy day, especially if you have been on your feet all day.
- Use Natural Lubricants: Choose natural plant-based lubricants during sexual intercourse and experiment with different positions to find what is most comfortable.
- Lift with Care: Avoid straining when lifting heavy objects to reduce pressure on your pelvic floor. Seek assistance if lifting feels strenuous.
- Manage Weight: If you are overweight, adjust your diet to help reduce weight and the load on your pelvic area.
If these measures do not relieve your symptoms or if they worsen, it is crucial to speak with your gynaecologist in London or contact them for further assistance.
Non-surgical Treatments for Vaginal Prolapse
To treat vaginal prolapse, doctors often recommend non-surgical options first. These include:
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor exercises, or Kegel exercises, strengthen the muscles supporting the pelvic organs. Women can improve their pelvic floor health by repeatedly contracting and relaxing these muscles.
Pessary
A pessary, a device inserted into the vagina, provides support to the pelvic organs. It serves as either a temporary or long-term solution, especially for those who prefer to avoid surgery or are not suitable candidates for it.
Lifestyle Modifications
Specific lifestyle changes can ease symptoms of vaginal prolapse. These include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, managing chronic cough, and treating constipation to reduce strain on the pelvic floor.
Surgical Treatments for Vaginal Prolapse
Reconstructive surgery can correct severe vaginal prolapse and enhance bowel, bladder and vaginal function. Surgeons may perform this surgery using various techniques, including laparoscopy, vaginal approaches, or abdominal incisions. However, note that 30% of prolapses recur after surgery.
Different types of surgical repairs include:
- Cystocele or Rectocele Repair: Fixes a prolapsed bladder, urethra, rectum, or small bowel.
- Vaginal Vault Suspension: Repairs the vaginal wall, often using laparoscopic methods.
- Vaginal Obliteration: Removes most of the vaginal lining and sews the vagina shut, making sexual intercourse impossible and the procedure irreversible.
Surgical options carry higher risks and do not always guarantee complete effectiveness. If you are looking for safe and effective vaginal prolapse treatments in London, consider the Top Gynaecologists clinic with expert doctors at your disposal.
Why Choose a Private Gynaecologist in London?
Choosing a private gynaecologist in London ensures you receive personalised advice, education, and support tailored to your needs. They will guide you towards resuming normal activities and exercise without discomfort. Expert in pelvic floor muscle activation, they enhance your strength and coordination through targeted exercises. By making fine adjustments to your lifestyle, they help you to manage symptoms independently.
Should your symptoms persist, they can explore options like pessaries or refer you to a specialist surgeon when necessary. Your gynaecologist will assist in decisions regarding alternative treatments. Surgery typically addresses symptom management rather than the severity of prolapse.
Every individual experiences unique challenges, so trusting your symptoms and seeking guidance from a specialist is crucial.
For any queries regarding vaginal prolapse, feel free to reach out or book an appointment with the Top Gynaecologists team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1) What factors influence the duration of recovery after surgery for vaginal prolapse?
Patients undergoing recovery should expect varying durations based on the surgery type. It is advisable to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks after surgery. Initially, patients may experience common discomforts managed with prescribed pain relief. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing progress and prevent recurrence of the prolapse.
Q2) What are some potential risks and complications associated with vaginal prolapse surgery?
Like all surgeries, vaginal prolapse repair carries potential risks and complications. These include infection, bleeding, organ damage, and reactions to anaesthesia. There is also a risk of prolapse recurrence or occurrence in a different pelvic floor area. Discussing these risks with a healthcare provider helps patients make informed treatment decisions.
Q3) What determines the type of treatment needed for vaginal prolapse?
Treatment for vaginal prolapse depends on symptom severity.
Q4) How can patients ensure the best possible outcomes from their vaginal prolapse treatment?
Patients can ensure optimal outcomes from vaginal prolapse treatment by:
- Following their healthcare provider’s pre-and post-operative care instructions.
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle to reduce pelvic floor strain.
Q5) What are the different surgical options available for treating vaginal prolapse?
Surgery options for vaginal prolapse include:
- Vaginal Mesh Surgery
- Hysterectomy
- Surgical Repair
- Vaginal Closure
