1 in 2 women experience pelvic organ prolapse. The right management and support can make all the difference.

Side view of female pelvic anatomy showing a prolapsed bladder (cystocele) pressing into the vaginal canal, with labels for the vagina and rectum.
A person standing with hands clasped in front of their body, wearing a gray T-shirt and blue jeans, against a gray background.

What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

The pelvic organs consist of

  • the bladder

  • the uterus

  • the bowel

They are held in position by the pelvic floor muscles as well as the connective tissue inside the pelvis.

If these structures are weakened or stretched, 1 or more of the pelvic organs can descend and press into the vaginal walls - this is called prolapse.

What does it feel like?

Symptoms can range from mild to more severe.

Even if your symptoms are mild, or your GP has told you that you have a ‘minor’ prolapse, early intervention can prevent worsening over time

Common symptoms include

  • vaginal heaviness or dragging sensation

  • incomplete bladder or bowel emptying

  • frequent UTIs

  • slow urine stream

  • sensation of a bulge in the vagina

How can Physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy can:

  • screen for risk of prolapse in order to implement prevention strategies

  • prescribe tailored pelvic floor muscle training

  • fit a pessary to manage prolapse

  • optimise bladder and bowel behaviour