Prolapse, or organ descent, is a condition that can have a significant impact on daily life.

What causes it? What solutions exist to treat it: perineal re-education, pessaries, surgery?

Discover a complete, accessible and motivating guide to understanding this condition and learning how to take care of your perineum.

How to treat prolapse

Prolapse, also known as organ descent, is a delicate but essential subject to tackle. 

It affects a significant proportion of the population, mainly women, and can have a major impact on quality of life. 

If you suffer from it, you're not alone, and there are ways of treating it. 

So, how do you treat prolapse? Let's get to the heart of the matter.

What is prolapse, and why does it occur?

Imagine a hammock supporting several precious objects. If the ropes stretch or become brittle, the hammock loses its tension and the objects risk toppling over. 

This is exactly what happens to the perineum when it can no longer hold the pelvic organs in place (bladder, uterus, rectum). 

The causes? There are many: childbirth, aging, excess weight, repetitive straining, genetic predisposition.

Symptoms vary according to the severity of the prolapse: a feeling of heaviness, urinary difficulties, intimate discomfort... Although these signs are sometimes taboo, it's crucial to talk to a healthcare professional.

Options for treating prolapse

Perineal reeducation: an essential pillar of treatment

When prolapse is mild to moderate, perineal re-education is often the recommended first step.

Through targeted exercises (such as Kegel exercises) and sometimes biofeedback or electrostimulation devices, it is possible to strengthen the perineal muscles to better support the organs. It's a non-invasive solution that requires regularity and patience, but gives very good results.

Motivating tip: Imagine your perineum as a sleeping muscle that you gently wake up. Each exercise is an invitation to restore its vigor.

Support devices: pessaries

For moderate cases, pessaries, a kind of ring inserted into the vagina, can be an effective option.

They support the organs and immediately relieve symptoms. Although this method requires regular medical follow-up, it is often appreciated for its ease of use.

Surgery: a solution for severe cases

When prolapse is advanced and significantly impairs quality of life, surgery may be considered. Several techniques are available, some of which use prostheses to restore pelvic support. However, surgery is not without risks, and requires careful consideration in consultation with your doctor.

Adopting the right daily habits

In addition to treatment, certain habits can help prevent prolapse from worsening:

- Avoid carrying heavy loads.

- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the perineum.

- Work on your posture: a well-aligned back relieves pressure on the pelvic floor.

- Practice gentle sports such as swimming or yoga, while avoiding high-impact sports like running or jumping.

Our opinion on the subject

Prolapse shouldn't be a taboo subject. Talking openly about it is the first step towards a solution. Perineal re-education, while requiring discipline, is an excellent way of taking care of yourself while avoiding more extensive interventions. 

However, each case is unique, and there is no “best” solution. 

The key is to listen to your body and consult the right professionals to find the path that's right for you.

Areas of uncertainty

Although medicine offers effective solutions, there are still grey areas. 

For example, some patients may experience improvements after rehabilitation, but others, despite assiduous efforts, will have to resort to surgery. Every body reacts differently, and it's important to bear in mind that the course of treatment may need to be adjusted.

Prolapse is not inevitable. Solutions exist to relieve your symptoms and return to a more comfortable daily routine. 

Don't let embarrassment or taboos hold you back: talk to your doctor or a specialist physiotherapist. 

Take the initiative today to understand your body's needs and explore your options.

What about you? What steps can you take right now to protect your perineum?