Pelvic organ prolapse treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
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Recommended health tests for Pelvic organ prolapse
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Pelvic organ prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition where the organs in the pelvis—like the bladder, rectum, uterus, and small bowel—drop from their normal position and push against the walls of the vagina. This usually occurs when the pelvic floor muscles are weakened. Affecting millions worldwide, its prevalence is notably higher among older women, though it's not exclusive to this demographic.
Causes
The primary cause of Pelvic Organ Prolapse is the weakening of the muscles and tissues that support the organs in the pelvis. This can happen due to a variety of reasons such as childbirth, aging, hysterectomy, obesity, chronic coughing (often related to smoking), and long-term constipation. Factors like genetics can also play a significant role, making some women more predisposed to this condition than others.
Signs and symptoms
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area - A noticeable bulge at the opening of the vagina - Discomfort or pain in the pelvis, lower back, or both - Urinary problems, such as incontinence or a frequent need to urinate - Difficulty with bowel movements or controlling gas - Sexual discomfort or difficulties
Diagnosing Pelvic organ prolapse
Diagnosing POP typically begins with a medical history review and a physical examination, including a pelvic exam. During the exam, a doctor can assess the strength of the pelvic muscles and identify any prolapse. In some cases, imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs may be recommended to further evaluate the condition's extent. Remember, discussing all symptoms, even those that may seem unrelated, can aid in an accurate diagnosis.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing Pelvic Organ Prolapse focuses largely on mitigating the factors that contribute to weakened pelvic muscles. Regular pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels), maintaining a healthy weight, treating and preventing constipation, and quitting smoking are all strategic measures. For women planning pregnancy, prenatal care and controlled weight gain can also be beneficial. Treatment for POP through functional medicine aims to strengthen the body naturally and address the root causes of the weakening pelvic muscles. Dietary changes to ensure a high intake of nutrients crucial for muscle and tissue strength, such as vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, are often recommended. Herbal remedies known to support tissue health might also be utilized, as well as acupuncture to improve pelvic floor muscle tone and overall pelvic health. Additionally, specific pelvic floor strengthening exercises are central to both preventing and treating POP. In some cases, a pessary — a device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs — can be a natural solution to manage symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a specialist in functional medicine to devise a plan that is tailored to your individual health needs and circumstances.
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