Pelvic organ prolapse in women – a doctor reveals what it means

  

“Pelvic organ prolapse is rarely talked about in society, although this condition affects many women with age. Some of them learn about it by chance during a preventive examination, others begin to worry after feeling physical changes. However, obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Gediminas Mečėjus, a doctor at the “Hila” Medical Diagnostic and Treatment Center, emphasizes that it is first important to understand the nature of this phenomenon and abandon the stereotypical view that every anatomical change means a disease.

 

“Pelvic organ prolapse is often associated with natural changes in the body that occur over the years. This is a physiological process and we must always start from the fact that this is a normal state for a woman. When talking about possible corrections or treatment, we must first realize that this is a natural part of life and one of the stages of aging,” says Gediminas Mečėjus, an obstetrician-gynecologist at “Hila”. Why does pelvic organ prolapse occur? The doctor emphasizes that the main mechanism of pelvic organ prolapse is related to changes in connective tissue. This tissue performs a supporting function in the body, therefore, changes in its properties over time lead to anatomical changes, the press release says. “Dentists advise”: vaccinations against the Human Papillomavirus – prevention of oncological disease “With age, the amount of hyaluronic acid decreases, changes in the structure of elastin occur, tissues become less elastic and more prone to stretching. For this reason, the support that holds the pelvic organs weakens, which can lead to their prolapse,” says G. Mečėjus. The doctor emphasizes that genetic factors, pregnancy and childbirth, increased abdominal pressure or intense physical exertion may play a certain role. However, the doctor emphasizes that these factors are not the only ones, therefore it is important to assess the individual situation in each case.

 

According to the specialist, we usually tend to assess aging only through biological changes, but it is a much broader process that includes various changes in the body and human experience. “Biological aging is manifested by slower cell renewal, changes in hormonal balance, decreasing muscle mass and a weakening immune system. Over the years, the structure of connective tissue also changes,” the doctor explains. However, aging is not limited to biological changes alone – an important place is also occupied by psychological human development and social changes. Life experience accumulates over the years, emotion regulation, decision-making and attitude to everyday situations change.

 

There are treatment methods, the most important thing is an individual solution

 

According to G. Mečejs, treatment of pelvic organ prolapse must always be individual and tailored to the specific patient. Age, general health status, physical activity, concomitant diseases, as well as a woman’s sex life and personal expectations are assessed. “Today, it is increasingly recognized that an active life and sexual relations can be important at different ages, therefore treatment methods are selected taking into account these aspects. The most important thing is to provide women with clear information and help them understand the changes in their body,” the doctor says. According to him, nowadays there are already various solutions that allow to effectively reduce symptoms and improve a woman's well-being. The doctor emphasizes that in many cases individually adapted rehabilitation programs can be applied.

 

"Physiotherapy is especially effective, during which the pelvic floor, abdominal and back muscles are strengthened, their coordination and endurance are improved. Modern technologies can also be applied - biofeedback systems, which allow for more precise control of muscle work, and various physiotherapy procedures, such as electrostimulation, functional magnetic stimulation or radiofrequency therapy," says G. Mečejs. The Hila Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Center offers women individual rehabilitation programs, which include a detailed examination, doctor's consultations, instrumental examinations, physiotherapy and, if necessary, modern physiotherapy procedures.

 

“Rehabilitation measures should be applied after consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist, especially in cases where there are insufficient indications for surgical treatment. However, it is very important not to rush in the first year after childbirth, when the body is still recovering naturally. Such measures can be useful for women who experience emotional discomfort due to body changes or aging, as well as when dealing with urinary incontinence, pelvic floor weakness or discomfort in daily activities,” the doctor says.

 

Treatment is not required in every case However, according to the specialist, the mere identification of anatomical changes does not mean that medical intervention is necessary. The decision on treatment is always determined by the symptoms experienced by the woman and their impact on daily life. “In medicine, several stages of pelvic organ prolapse are distinguished, but early ones are often considered the norm and do not require treatment. We can find the first stage of prolapse in almost every woman over 60 years of age, and this is normal,” says the doctor. Treatment is usually considered when pronounced symptoms appear – discomfort, urination disorders, bleeding or a significant deterioration in the quality of life.”