Feeling unusual discomfort or pressure in or around your vagina could indicate one of several types of pelvic organ prolapse. We specialize in diagnosing and treating pelvic organ prolapse using several effective approaches.
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles in your pelvic region become weak and can no longer hold the organs in the region in their original places. When this happens, certain organs drop downward toward your vagina.
Cases of pelvic organ prolapse range from mild to severe depending on how far down the organs in question drop. Three of the most common types of pelvic organ prolapse, which each primarily affect a different organ, are:
Cystocele is the most common type of pelvic organ prolapse. In this case, part of your bladder bulges into the vaginal canal. In severe cases, the bulge exits the vagina. A common symptom of cystocele, or bladder prolapse, is urinary incontinence.
Rectocele happens when your rectum merges toward your vagina and creates a bulge into or out of your vagina.
Uterine prolapse primarily affects your uterus. If you get it, your uterus descends into or out of your vagina.
Any type of pelvic organ prolapse can develop after changes occur to the muscles in your pelvic region. There are many circumstances that can start the process, including:
You should contact Dr. Khamvongsa if you feel unusual pressure in your pelvic area or if you see or feel a bulge inside or outside of your vagina. You might feel particularly severe discomfort after you stand for a long time or exercise. To diagnose you, Dr. Khamvongsa performs a pelvic exam.
In order to create an appropriate treatment plan for your specific type and severity of pelvic organ prolapse, Dr. Khamvongsa assesses various factors including your current health, lifestyle, and age. Your treatment plan might involve:
A pessary is a flexible, removable silicone device that you place in your vagina to provide support for your prolapsed pelvic organs. They come in several shapes and sizes, and Dr. Khamvongsa can help you find one that fits you.
In some cases, estrogen therapy helps treat pelvic organ prolapse. Taking estrogen can help strengthen the muscles in your pelvic region after you lose estrogen during menopause.
Pelvic floor muscle exercises can help strengthen the muscles in your pelvic region. Dr. Khamvongsa might also use biofeedback monitoring devices to show the strength of specific muscles.
To explore treatments for pelvic organ prolapse of any type, call Peter A Khamvongsa, FACOG, FACS, IF or book an appointment online today.
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8950 North Kendall Drive, Suite #501
Miami, FL 33176
Phone: (786) 220-2184
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