What are the stages of prolapse?
If you’re not sure what to look for when checking for a bulge, read on.
I’ve been asked a lot of questions about different stages of prolapse.
This visual is perfect again by the fabulous @mypelvicfloormuscles
- Mild bulge: generally difficult to see on self inspection
- Moderate bulge: a pinkish “ball” that does not go past the entrance of your vagina
- Severe: a pinkish “ball” that does go past the entrance of your vagina
Even though it may be the bladder or the rectum that is bulging, the bulge will be pinkish- it’s the colour of your vagina because what you are seeing IS your vagina.
Why is that? Let’s use the bladder as an example. The bladder AND the vaginal wall are both dropping. The bladder isn’t staying in it’s lane and it’s taking the vaginal wall down with it. It has dropped into the lane next to it which is the vagina.
Pelvic heaviness, pelvic pressure, and a bulge in the vagina are common symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse (POP).
1. This “what to look for” post does not determine whether or not you have pelvic organ prolapse.
2. Your women’s health provider generally uses a test called the “POPQ” during your annual exam to see if you have pelvic organ prolapse. There are multiple calculations and measurements that determine what type and what grade of prolapse you may have.
3. Your symptoms may vary by day. Some days a bulge may not be visible and other days it is.
4. Your symptoms may vary by time. Some times of day a bulge may not be visible and other times it is.
5. Positions and activities may affect your symptoms.
6. There are many successful interventions for POP. A strong and coordinated pelvic floor is important for long term successful management of POP.
7. I have happily and successfully lived with POP for 19 years! Most days I’m symptom free but not always. Overall I’m pleased with my quality of life and I’m doing everything that I want to do! This is the first time I’ve publicly shared this Jeanice”
Love @myPFM page check it out if you have any pelvic health “bothersome bits”
For more information about prolapse visit my educational prolapse website page.