Preventing Vaginal Prolapse: What You Need to Know
Vaginal prolapse occurs when pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum) descend into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic support. Prevention focuses on strengthening muscles, maintaining healthy habits, and early intervention.
🔹 What Is Vaginal Prolapse?
A condition where tissue or organs slip downward into the vagina. Types include:
- Cystocele: Bladder drops into the anterior vaginal wall.
- Rectocele: Rectum bulges into the posterior vaginal wall.
- Uterine prolapse: Uterus descends toward or through the vaginal entrance.
- Enterocele: Small intestine pushes into vaginal space.
🔹 Who's at Risk?
Risk factors include:
- Multiple vaginal births or large baby delivery.
- Menopause and reduced oestrogen.
- Chronic coughing (e.g. asthma, smoking).
- Excessive straining (constipation, heavy lifting).
- Obesity or rapid weight gain.
- Pelvic surgery history (e.g. hysterectomy).
🔹 Key Prevention Strategies
- Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels): Aim for 10 slow contractions held for 5–10 sec, 3×/day. Incorporate quick “pump” squeezes to target fast‑twitch fibres.
- Biofeedback & physiotherapy: Professional guidance helps ensure correct technique and muscle engagement.
- Maintain healthy weight: Avoid excess pressure on pelvic floor.
- Treat constipation: Eat fibre, hydrate, and use softeners if needed.
- Stop smoking: Reduces coughing strain and improves tissue health.
- Avoid heavy lifting: Or brace your pelvis correctly if lifting is necessary.
- Oestrogen support: For post-menopausal women, topical oestrogen may help tissue strength (consult your GP or gynaecologist).
🔹 Daily Routine Tips
• Warm‑up before exercise;
• Exhale while lifting or straining;
• Use proper posture when standing or seated;
• Choose low-impact activities (walking, swimming); avoid high‑impact jumping.
🔹 When to See a Doctor
- Sensation of heaviness, bulge, or pressure in the pelvis.
- Urinary issues (leakage, frequent urination, inability to empty bladder).
- Bowel changes or difficulties.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Recurring UTIs.
Early consultation improves management. Options may include pessaries, physiotherapy, or surgery.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can pelvic floor exercises stop prolapse before it starts?
Yes—doing Kegels correctly and regularly can significantly reduce the risk of mild to moderate prolapse, especially around childbirth or menopause.
How long until I see results?
Improvement is often noticeable within 8–12 weeks of consistent training, though ongoing practice may be needed.
Are there devices to help?
Pelvic cones or biofeedback devices can aid engagement, but always use under professional advice.
Is surgery reversible?
Surgical repair is effective in moderate to severe cases, but rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments are essential to prevent recurrence.
🔹 Final Word
Vaginal prolapse prevention is achievable through simple, consistent steps—pelvic floor strengthening, healthy habits, and early treatment when needed. With regular effort and professional guidance, many women can maintain pelvic health and comfort throughout life.