Pelvic Organ Prolapse What It Is and How Physio Can Help

If you’ve ever felt a heavy sensation “down there,” a dragging feeling, or noticed a bulge in the vagina, you’re not alone. These are common signs of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) a condition that affects around 1 in 2 women who’ve given birth. At Praxis Rehab in Belair, we provide compassionate, evidence-based physiotherapy to help women manage prolapse symptoms and regain control of their pelvic health without fear, shame, or confusion. Let’s explore what prolapse really is, why it happens, and how pelvic physio can help you feel more comfortable and confident again.

What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when one or more of the organs in your pelvis (bladder, uterus, rectum) drop down from their usual position and press into the walls of the vagina.

This occurs when the muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that support your pelvic organs become weakened or stretched.

Common types of prolapse:

• Bladder (cystocele) – front wall of the vagina bulges

• Uterus (uterine prolapse) – the uterus drops down into the vaginal space

• Rectum (rectocele) – back wall of the vagina bulges

• Vaginal vault prolapse – the top of the vagina collapses after hysterectomy

  
  

What Does Prolapse Feel Like?

Everyone’s experience is different, but common symptoms include:

• A feeling of heaviness, dragging, or pressure in the pelvis

• A bulge or lump you can feel inside or at the entrance of the vagina

• Urinary symptoms – frequency, urgency, leaking, difficulty emptying

• Bowel changes – constipation, incomplete emptying

  Symptoms that worsen after standing long or at the end of the day

These symptoms can feel scary or even embarrassing but please know they’re very common and very treatable.

What Causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Some of the most common contributing factors include:

• Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth (especially forceps, long labours, or large babies)

• Chronic straining (e.g., from constipation or heavy lifting)

• Hormonal changes during menopause (reduced oestrogen = less tissue support)

• High-impact exercise without pelvic floor support

• Genetic factors some women naturally have more lax tissue

• Hysterectomy or pelvic surgery that disrupts support structures

  
  

How Can Pelvic Physio Help with Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse doesn’t always mean surgery; in fact, many women find that

pelvic floor physiotherapy significantly improves their symptoms, quality of life, and confidence.

At Praxis Rehab, we work with you to:

✅ Assess your pelvic floor

We evaluate the strength, tone, coordination, and endurance of your pelvic floor muscles, as well as your posture, breathing, and daily movement patterns.

✅ Teach effective muscle activation

We help you find and properly engage the right muscles many people unknowingly bear down rather than lift up, which can make prolapse worse.

✅ Design a tailored exercise plan

Your rehab might include:

• Pelvic floor muscle training (Kegels, done right)

• Core retraining and postural work

• Education on bladder and bowel habits

• Lifestyle modifications (lifting, coughing, etc.)

• Support tools (like pessaries, if needed)

  
  

✅ Offer ongoing support

Prolapse recovery is a journey. We check in, adjust your plan, and celebrate your progress along the way.

Can Prolapse Be Cured Without Surgery?

Many women can manage or reduce prolapse symptoms without surgery, especially if caught early. Physiotherapy can:

• Improve pelvic floor support

• Relieve pressure and bulging sensations

• Reduce incontinence or urgency

• Help you safely return to exercise or daily activities

In some cases, prolapse may be more severe and surgery might be considered. But even then, pre- and post-operative physiotherapy is highly recommended to improve outcomes and prevent recurrence.

You’re Not Broken and You’re Not Alone

It’s common for women to feel embarrassed or alone when dealing with prolapse. You might think, “Why didn’t anyone tell me about this?” or “Is this just part of getting older or being a mum?”

But we want to reassure you: prolapse is common, not something to be ashamed of, and absolutely treatable.

At Praxis Rehab, you’ll be met with professional, respectful care in a safe space. We explain everything clearly, get your informed consent every step of the way, and tailor treatment to your goals, your comfort, and your life.

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Can pelvic organ prolapse improve with physiotherapy?

 Yes, with tailored pelvic floor exercises and lifestyle changes, many women see symptom relief.

How do I know if I have pelvic organ prolapse? 

Look for heaviness, bulge, or bladder/bowel changes. A pelvic physio can assess and confirm.

Is pelvic floor physiotherapy painful? 

No. It’s gentle, and any internal exam is done only with your consent.

Can I exercise with pelvic organ prolapse?

 Yes, but choose safe, supportive exercises guided by your physio.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a pelvic health physiotherapist?

 No referral needed; you can book directly.

Your Path to Pelvic Comfort Starts Here

If you suspect you might have pelvic organ prolapse, don’t wait. The earlier we start, the more we can help.

Call us to book an appointment:

 (08) 7231 1628 📍 Visit us at : 13 Laffers Road, Belair SA (Inside Integrative Health Solutions) 🕒 Open Tuesdays: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Book Now

References: 

Hayman, M., Thornton, L., O’Hara, B., et al. (2023). Public health guidelines for physical activity during pregnancy from around the world: A scoping review. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 57(14), 940–949. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2022-106216