Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is an uncomfortable condition that affects many women. This can occur due to weakened pelvic floor muscles or other soft tissues that are responsible to hold our pelvic organs- the uterus, vagina, bladder, and rectum- in place which can happen as a result of pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or certain medical conditions. When these muscles become weak, the pelvic organs may drop down lower in the vaginal canal, in case of uterine prolapse, or protrude into the vaginal canal in case of Cystocele (bladder) or Rectocele (rectum).

⭐ Key Takeaways

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) happens when pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum shift downward due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues.

• Symptoms include heaviness, pelvic pressure, bulging, urinary issues, bowel symptoms, and discomfort with intercourse.

• Causes include pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, ageing, straining, chronic constipation, and obesity.

• Pelvic floor physiotherapy is one of the most effective first-line, non-surgical treatments for prolapse symptoms.

• Physiotherapy can improve pelvic support, sexual comfort, bladder/bowel control, and daily functional capacity.

• Many women avoid surgery by starting pelvic floor physiotherapy early.

• A personalized, evidence-informed treatment plan helps prevent worsening and restore daily confidence.

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse can vary depending on the severity of the condition and which organs are affected. Some common symptoms include:

• A sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area

• A feeling of something coming out of the vagina

• Pain during intercourse

• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic region

• Difficulty with bowel movements or urinary incontinence

What Are the Causes of POP?

There are several factors that can contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and the development of pelvic organ prolapse. Some of these factors include:

• Pregnancy and Childbirth: The pressure of a growing fetus and the stress of delivery can weaken the pelvic floor muscles.

• Aging: As we age, our bodies undergo changes that can affect the strength and elasticity of the pelvic floor muscles.

• Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.

• Obesity: Excess weight can put additional pressure on the pelvic floor muscles.

• Persistent Straining: The repeated stress of straining due to issues with bowel movements can weaken the pelvic floor muscles.

How Can I Prevent POP?

While pelvic organ prolapse cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, training your pelvic floor muscles, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating constipation/persistent straining are all ways to help keep the pelvic floor muscles strong and healthy.

What Are the Steps for Diagnosis and Treatment?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help alleviate the symptoms of prolapse by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. This involves exercises that target the function of the muscles of the pelvic floor with a global, whole-person approach to help you return to normal activities that you had to stop because of symptoms. 

In addition to strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, pelvic floor physiotherapy can also help to improve bladder and bowel function, reduce pain, and improve sexual function. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can also be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as surgery or pessary use, to improve function and reduce symptoms.

If you are experiencing symptoms of prolapse, such as pelvic pressure or bulging, difficulty with urination or bowel movements, or discomfort during sex, it is important to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist who can work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

❓FAQs About Pelvic Organ Prolapse

• What is pelvic organ prolapse?

  Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and supportive tissues weaken, allowing one or more pelvic organs—such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum—to shift downward or press into the vaginal canal. It is a common condition among women of all ages, especially after pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause.

• What does pelvic organ prolapse feel like?

  Women often describe POP as:

  • A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis

  • A bulge or sensation of something “coming down” in the vagina

  • Difficulty with bowel movements

  • Urinary leakage or urgency

  • Discomfort or pain during intercourse

  • Lower back or pelvic aching

  Symptoms may worsen with prolonged standing, lifting, or at the end of the day.

• What causes pelvic organ prolapse?

  Several factors can contribute to POP, including:

  • Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth

  • Menopause and decreased estrogen levels

  • Aging and tissue elasticity changes

  • Chronic constipation and straining

  • Obesity

  • Heavy lifting

  • Pelvic surgery

  Many women experience a combination of these contributing factors.

• Can pelvic organ prolapse be prevented?

  While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight

  • Treating constipation and avoiding straining

  • Practicing pelvic floor exercises

  • Avoiding excessive heavy lifting

  • Learning proper pressure management and breathing techniques

  Pelvic floor physiotherapy can also help prevent worsening of prolapse symptoms.

• How is pelvic organ prolapse diagnosed?

  A diagnosis is made through a clinical pelvic exam by a pelvic floor physiotherapist or physician. The evaluation may include:

  • Assessment of pelvic organ support

  • Pelvic floor muscle function

  • Symptom severity

  • Bladder and bowel patterns

  • Breathing, posture, and core strategy

  This helps determine the stage and type of prolapse.

• Does every prolapse require surgery?

  No. Many women manage their prolapse symptoms successfully with conservative treatments like pelvic floor physiotherapy, lifestyle modifications, pessary support, and bladder or bowel retraining. Surgery is considered only when symptoms significantly impact daily life and conservative care does not provide relief.

• How does pelvic floor physiotherapy help with prolapse?

  Pelvic floor physiotherapy is one of the most effective first-line treatments for POP. It can help by:

  • Improving coordination, strength, and endurance of pelvic floor muscles

  • Teaching proper pressure management during daily activities

  • Reducing feelings of heaviness and bulging

  • Improving bladder and bowel function

  • Reducing pain and discomfort

  • Supporting sexual health and comfort

  • Providing individualized strategies to help you return to exercise without worsening symptoms

  Physiotherapy empowers you with tools to support your pelvic organs long-term.

• Can pelvic floor exercises fix prolapse?

  Pelvic floor exercises cannot “reverse” the physical descent of the organs, but they can significantly improve symptoms, support better bladder and bowel control, reduce discomfort, and prevent the prolapse from progressing. Many women experience meaningful relief with the right training program.

• Can I still exercise if I have prolapse?

  Yes, but modifications may be needed. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can teach you:

  • Symptom-friendly exercise progressions

  • Proper breathing and core coordination

  • Which movements to avoid or adapt

  • How to exercise safely without straining the pelvic floor

  Staying active is important; you don’t need to stop moving, you need guidance.

• Can sexual intercourse worsen prolapse?

  Sex does not cause prolapse or make it worse. However, some women experience discomfort due to pressure, dryness, or tense pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help improve comfort and confidence during intimacy.

• When should I see a pelvic floor physiotherapist?

  You should seek help if you experience:

  • Pelvic heaviness or pressure

  • A bulging sensation

  • Urinary leakage, urgency, or incomplete emptying

  • Constipation or straining

  • Pain with intercourse

  • Difficulty returning to exercise

  • Discomfort that impacts daily life

  The sooner you seek care, the easier it is to manage symptoms.

Why Choose Ova in Burnaby, BC?

At Ova, pelvic organ prolapse is one of the most common conditions we treat, and one we’re well known for managing with expertise and compassion. With thousands of prolapse cases seen over the years, our team brings a deep understanding of how this condition affects your body, your confidence, and your daily life.

Located in Burnaby and serving women across the Lower Mainland and BC, we offer individualized, evidence-based pelvic floor physiotherapy designed to help you feel supported, not rushed into surgery. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or navigating ongoing symptoms, we work with you to develop a plan that aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and recovery timeline.

For those who need care sooner, we offer options for faster access to appointments, including sessions outside of regular clinic hours and urgent bookings when immediate care is needed. You can find these options—Priority Appointments and Emergency Appointments—when booking through our online system. Be sure to read the appointment details carefully on the booking page to understand which option is right for your situation.

At Ova, our approach is rooted in education, empowerment, and results, so you can regain control of your pelvic health in a warm, supportive environment.

Ready to Begin?

Don’t wait. The sooner we start, the sooner you can feel relief. Space is limited due to high demand, but if you are ready to take the first step toward recovery, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Want to Learn More? Explore Our Exclusive E-Books, Videos, and Resources

At Ova Women’s Health, we’re not just here to treat; we’re here to educate. If you’re looking for real answers to complex pelvic health concerns, our content goes beyond what you’ll typically find online.

📘 Intimate & Vulvar Hygiene E-Book

A must-read for every woman, especially in early adulthood. This comprehensive guide explains how to care for your intimate area safely and effectively—what to use, what to avoid, and why gentle, evidence-based hygiene is essential for long-term pelvic and sexual health. It’s the foundation of healthy habits that support balance, comfort, and confidence at every stage of life.

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📌Related Blogs on Our Website

➡️Restoring Bladder Control: Treatment of Urinary Urgency and Frequency

➡️Overcoming Endometriosis

➡️Vaginismus and the Path to Pain-Free Intimacy

➡️Relieving Vulvodynia

➡️Painful Orgasm: Understanding Dysorgasm

➡️Vaginal Dryness 101

📌External Resources

🌐NIH-Pelvic Organ Prolapse

🌐Cleveland Clinic – POP Overview