Finding Support for Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Holistic Approach 

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a common condition that affects many women, though it is often a topic surrounded by silence and embarrassment. It occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs (the bladder, uterus, or rectum) descend from their normal position and press into the vaginal canal. While this can sound alarming, it’s a condition that can be managed effectively with the right support. 

There are different types of prolapse, often named after the organ that has descended: 

Anterior Vaginal Wall Prolapse: When the front wall of the vagina has excess movement aka Cystocele (when the bladder is involved) or Urethrocele (when the urethra is involved) 

Posterior Vaginal Wall Prolapse: When back wall of the vagina has excess movement aka Rectocele (when the rectum is involved) 

Uterine Prolapse: When the uterus descends into the vaginal canal. 

The causes of POP are varied and often interconnected. They include factors that weaken or strain the pelvic floor, such as childbirth (especially a difficult or prolonged labour), chronic straining from constipation, heavy lifting, a persistent cough, and the hormonal changes that occur during menopause. 

From an osteopathic perspective, we don’t just focus on the pelvis in isolation. We recognise that the body is a complex, integrated system. While the prolapse itself is a physical descent of an organ, the factors contributing to it can be far-reaching. A lack of mobility in the lower back, a misaligned pelvis, or stiffness in the hips can all alter the forces acting on the pelvic floor, making it more vulnerable to strain. 

Our osteopathic approach is centred on addressing these contributing factors to help manage symptoms and improve the overall function of the body. Treatment may include a combination of external and internal techniques, always with the patient’s explicit consent and full understanding. 

External techniques often involve gentle massage, stretching, and articulation of the spine, pelvis, and hips. By improving the mobility and balance in these key areas, we can help to reduce the strain on the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. We also consider the role of posture and breathing mechanics, as these can significantly influence intra-abdominal pressure, a major factor in prolapse. 

Internal techniques, performed with a gloved hand and with the patient’s full consent, can be highly effective. This direct work allows us to assess the tone and strength of the pelvic floor muscles, identify any trigger points or areas of excessive tightness, and gently release them. This can help to improve the muscles’ ability to support the pelvic organs and can be a crucial part of a comprehensive treatment plan. 

If you suspect you have a prolapse, an osteopath can be a valuable first port of call. After a thorough assessment and diagnosis, we can work with your wider healthcare team by making a necessary referral. Osteopathic care can be a vital part of this journey, offering a gentle, holistic way to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and empower you to better understand and support your body.