What are the treatment options for prolapse?

The good news is that prolapse doesn't always mean surgery. The best treatment depends on the type and severity of your prolapse, your symptoms, your age and stage of life, and your personal goals.

Treatment options may include:

Pelvic floor muscle training

A tailored pelvic floor exercise programme can help improve support, reduce symptoms and improve bladder and bowel function. Not everyone needs to "just do Kegels" as the exercises need to be specific to you and your pelvic floor function.

Lifestyle changes

Simple changes can make a big difference, including:

• Managing constipation and avoiding straining

• Learning how to reduce pressure on your pelvic floor during lifting and exercise

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Modifying activities that aggravate your symptoms while you build strength

Pessary fitting

A vaginal pessary is a soft silicone device that sits inside the vagina to support the pelvic organs. Many women use a pessary to stay active, continue exercising, delay or avoid surgery, or simply feel more comfortable in everyday life. There are many different types and sizes, and a pelvic health physiotherapist can help find the right one for you.

Returning to exercise

Having a prolapse doesn't mean you have to stop exercising. With the right assessment and guidance, many women can continue walking, strength training, running and other activities while managing their symptoms effectively.

Vaginal oestrogen

For women in perimenopause or menopause, vaginal oestrogen prescribed by your GP or specialist can improve the health and elasticity of the vaginal tissues. This may reduce symptoms such as vaginal dryness, bladder irritation and discomfort, and can complement other prolapse treatments.

Surgery

Some women with more severe prolapse or persistent symptoms may choose surgery. If this is appropriate, we can refer you to a specialist. Pelvic health physiotherapy is often recommended before surgery to optimise pelvic floor function and again afterwards to support recovery and help achieve the best long term outcome.

Many women think prolapse is something they simply have to put up with, or that surgery is their only option. The reality is there are a range of effective, evidence based treatments that can help reduce symptoms, improve function and allow you to continue doing the things you love.

Every woman's prolapse is different. A thorough assessment allows us to identify exactly what's happening and create a treatment plan that's tailored to your body, lifestyle and goals. Whether your aim is to return to running, keep up with your children, enjoy exercise again, or simply feel more comfortable throughout the day, there are effective treatment options available.

At Bump and Beyond Physio, I offer comprehensive prolapse assessments, personalised pelvic floor rehabilitation, pessary fitting, exercise guidance and education to help you confidently manage your symptoms.

If you've been experiencing heaviness, a vaginal bulge, bladder or bowel symptoms, or the sensation of "sitting on a tampon," don't wait for things to get worse. Early assessment and treatment can make a significant difference to your symptoms and quality of life.

Book an appointment today and let's create a plan that helps you get back to living life with confidence.