Incontinence & Overactive Bladder Health Center

Home treatment can relieve the discomfort of pelvic organ prolapse. It can also help to keep prolapse from getting worse.

• Do Kegel exercises every day to strengthen the muscles and ligaments of the pelvis:
• Prevent or correct constipation. The straining caused by constipation increases pressure from the bowel on the vaginal wall and weakens and damages the connective tissue and muscles in the pelvis.
  • Try gentle exercise. Take a short walk each day. Gradually increase your walking time until you are walking for at least 20 minutes each day.
  • Make sure you drink enough fluids.
  • Eat plenty of high-fiber foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables every day. Have a bran muffin or bran cereal for breakfast, and try eating a piece of fruit for an afternoon snack. Try to eat about 20 g of fiber every day.
  • Schedule time each day for a bowel movement-after breakfast, for example. Having a daily routine may help. Take your time.
  • If you continue to be constipated, try taking processed or synthetic fiber (such as Citrucel, Metamucil, or Perdiem) each day.
  • If your stools are very hard, try taking a stool softener, such as Colace, to prevent straining.
• Reach and stay at a healthy weight. For more information, see the topic Weight Management.
• Avoid activities that stress your pelvic muscles, such as heavy lifting.