Incontinence & Overactive Bladder Health Center

Pelvic Organ Prolapse

How Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treated?

Treatment of pelvic organ prolapse depends on how severe the symptoms are. Treatment can include a variety of therapies, including:

• Behavioral treatments, such as doing Kegel exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles
• Mechanical treatments, such as inserting a small plastic device called a pessary into the vagina to provide support for the drooping organs
• Surgical treatment, either to repair the affected tissue or organ or to remove the organ (such as removal of the uterus by hysterectomy)

Can Pelvic Organ Prolapse Be Prevented?

Many risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse are out of your control. These include:

• Family history
• Advancing age
• A difficult vaginal delivery
• Having had a hysterectomy

But you can reduce the likelihood you will have problems. Try these steps:

• Do Kegel exercises daily to maintain good muscle strength in your pelvic area
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid constipation
• Do not smoke, as a chronic cough boosts the risk of problems