Vaginal Prolapse Doctor in Houston
What is Vaginal Prolapse?
Vaginal prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles, tissues, and ligaments in a woman weaken and stretch, causing organs to slip out of their normal positions. Specifically, vaginal prolapse refers to the top of the vagina, known as the vaginal vault, sagging and falling into the vaginal canal. In severe instances, the vagina may even protrude outside the body.
What Causes Vaginal Prolapse?
There are no direct causes of vaginal prolapse, but several factors can increase the risk, including:
- Vaginal childbirth, particularly multiple deliveries
- Approaching or undergoing menopause
- Certain lifestyle factors, such as being overweight
- Congenital conditions, like bladder exstrophy
Vaginal Prolapse After Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, may be performed to treat uterine prolapse. However, vaginal prolapse can still occur after a hysterectomy, regardless of the reason for the surgery. This condition is referred to as “vaginal prolapse after hysterectomy.”
How Common is Vaginal Prolapse?
Vaginal prolapse is relatively common, with about one-third of women experiencing some degree of prolapse in their lifetime. The risk increases if multiple risk factors are present.
Signs and Symptoms of Vaginal Prolapse
Vaginal Pressure
Women with vaginal prolapse often feel pressure in the vaginal area, described as a throbbing pain. Additional reported sensations include:
- Vaginal fullness, like something is stuck in the vagina
- The feeling that something is falling out of the vagina
Additional Symptoms
Since pelvic organs support each other, the prolapse of one organ can affect the functioning of others, leading to:
- Changes in bowel function, such as difficulty having a bowel movement
- Changes in bladder function, such as an inability to empty the bladder
- Secondary prolapses, like rectocele (sagging between the vagina and rectum) or cystocele (sagging between the vagina and bladder)
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Difficulty using tampons
Diagnosis of Vaginal Prolapse
Diagnosis involves a review of medical and surgical history and a physical examination by a doctor. Additional tests like ultrasound or MRI are rarely needed. In some cases, urodynamics testing may be recommended to evaluate bladder function.
Treatment of Vaginal Prolapse
Treatment varies based on symptom severity. Many cases do not require treatment. For mild cases, pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles may be recommended. In moderate cases, a vaginal pessary may be inserted to support the vaginal wall. Severe cases might benefit from surgery, such as colposuspension, a minimally invasive procedure where the vaginal wall is attached to a stable pelvic ligament.
Vaginal Prolapse Doctor in Houston
