Don't Ignore the Discomfort: 3 Telltale Signs of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Do you regularly experience pelvic pain or pressure? Do you also experience related issues such as urinary incontinence (accidental leakage) or constipation? These symptoms often indicate pelvic organ prolapse (POP), a condition that occurs when the pelvic floor, a group of muscles supporting the bladder, uterus, and rectum, becomes weakened.

Anyone can experience POP, but it’s most common in women. In fact, about half of women 50 and older have some form of POP. However, it can be challenging to tell if you’re at risk.

At Associated Urologists of North Carolina, PA, with offices in Cary, Clayton, Dunn, Raleigh, and Wake Forest, North Carolina, our expert urology team specializes in diagnosing and treating POP. Continue reading to discover three telltale symptoms that can take action and prevent the issue from worsening. 

Symptom #1: A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area

One of the first symptoms of POP that many patients experience is a feeling of fullness or pressure in their lower abdomen (pelvic area). Some people describe it as a dull, heavy, or dragging sensation that feels as if something is weighing them down. You may notice that even if the sensation is mild at first, it tends to worsen throughout the day.

When the pelvic floor weakens, the organs it supports, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum, drop lower, leading to this uncomfortable sensation. 

Symptom #2: Changes to bladder and bowel function

Changes to the pelvic floor muscles often place excess pressure on surrounding organs, such as the bladder and rectum. Since these organs are responsible for urination and defecation, patients can experience urinary incontinence or urgency, difficulty starting urination, or even constipation.

Some patients overlook these warning signs, considering them a natural part of the aging process. While it’s true that incontinence and constipation are more common as you get older, it’s important to make sure they aren’t caused by something more serious. 

Symptom #3: A bulge in the vaginal area

If POP isn’t treated promptly, organs such as the bladder, rectum, and uterus can sag even further, placing pressure on the vaginal wall. Symptoms often start subtly, but as sagging worsens, a noticeable bulge may develop that can be felt inside or outside the vagina.

This symptom is most common in women who have had children or are going through menopause. Hormonal and structural changes can exacerbate the issue by significantly weakening the pelvic floor.

When to seek professional help

If you have any symptoms of POP, don’t wait to seek professional help. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent the issue from worsening and reduce your risk of complications, such as infections or sores. 

Talking to a doctor about these intimate issues may feel intimidating, but there’s nothing to worry about. Our caring and compassionate providers offer a listening ear and non-judgmental support.

We can help you manage pelvic organ prolapse

Don’t let pelvic organ prolapse turn into a larger issue. To make an appointment, call the nearest office in Cary, Clayton, Dunn, Raleigh, or Wake Forest, North Carolina, or schedule online.