When an organ descends in its own cavity due to the ligaments or muscle not working effectively as support structure it is called Prolapse. Different types of prolapse are named for the specific organ and their relative position to the adjoining organs. Pelvic Organ prolapse can be different types.
- Uterine Prolapse: Uterus descending into vagina
- Rectal Prolapse: Rectum descending toward the anus
- Cystocele: Bladder pushed into vagina
- Cystourethrocele: Bladder and urethra pushed into vagina
- Enterocele: intestine descend into the space between the vagina and rectum
- Rectocele: Rectum pushes into the vagina
Prolapse is graded from zero to four based on the severity of descend. Physical therapists effectively help alleviate the symptoms associated with Grades 1-3 prolapse. For Grade 4 prolapse, physical therapy is done before and after prolapse surgery to strengthen the pelvic floor in order to avoid a relapse.
For more information and support for prolapse please visit APOPS (pelvicorganprolapsesupport.org).