Non-Surgical Treatments for Vaginal Prolapse
Non-Surgical Treatment for Vaginal Prolapse may consist of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy, and / or the use of a Pessary. The decision on which therapy or therapies to use to treat Vaginal Prolapse depends on the degree of Vaginal Prolapse, the degree of symptoms, and the patients wishes.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise (PME)
Also known as Kegel’s exercises, they strengthen the support of the pelvic organs and are most commonly used to treat stress urinary incontinence. PME techniques are also useful in prolapse prevention. Once the symptoms of prolapse are severe, however, these exercises are of little benefit.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
This type of non-surgical treatment for Vaginal Prolpse is provided by specially trained Physical Therapists. Like other physical therapist, they specialize in treating functional problems but focus on the female pelvic muscles with an emphasis on Vaginal Prolapse, Urinary & Fecal Incontinence, Pelvic Floor Pain, Urinary Urgency & Frequency, Voiding abnormalities, and Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Their goal is to improve the strength and function of the pelvic floor muscles and return normal function.
Pessary
Pessaries are a non-surgical approach for treatment of Vaginal Prolapse. A device worn in the vagina like a diaphragm. Pessaries are used to support the vagina, bladder, rectum and uterus as necessary. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so a doctor or nurse must fit them. You will also need to remove the pessary from time to time for cleaning. If you are unable to remove and replace your pessary, regular scheduled visits to your healthcare provider will be need. A pessary may be an effective non-surgical treatment for Vaginal Prolapse if you are young and not finished having children, if surgery would be too risky for you given your health, or if you simple do not wish to have surgery.