Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) happens when the muscles that hold up your bladder, uterus (womb), or rectum (bottom) get weak or stretched. When this happens, one of these organs can sag down and push against the walls of the vagina. It’s like a trampoline that gets loose and starts to droop in the middle.

What Causes It?

• Having babies (especially big babies or tough deliveries)

• Getting older (muscles weaken as we age)

• Lifting heavy things a lot (like furniture or boxes)

• Coughing a lot (from smoking, asthma, or allergies)

• Being overweight (puts extra pressure on pelvic muscles)

• Menopause (when periods stop, hormones change and muscles get weaker)

Different Types

Depending on which organ drops, POP can be:

1. Bladder prolapse (Cystocele) – The bladder pushes into the vagina.

2. Rectum prolapse (Rectocele) – The rectum bulges into the vagina.

3. Uterus prolapse – The womb drops down into the vagina.

4. Small intestine prolapse (Enterocele) – The intestine presses on the vagina.

5. Top of vagina drops (Vaginal vault prolapse) – Can happen after uterus removal surgery.

What Does It Feel Like?

• A heavy or full feeling in the pelvis (like something is falling out).

• A bulge or lump in the vagina (you might see or feel it).

• Leaking pee when you cough, laugh, or sneeze.

• Trouble peeing or pooping (like not being able to empty fully).

• Pain during sex.

• Lower backache that won’t go away.

How Is It Treated?

For mild cases:

• Kegel exercises – Squeezing pelvic muscles (like stopping pee midstream) to make them stronger.

• A pessary – A small, removable device (like a ring) that holds organs in place.

• Lifestyle changes – Losing weight, not lifting heavy things, treating coughs.

For serious cases:

• Surgery – To fix the muscles or remove the uterus if needed.

Can You Prevent It?

• Do Kegels every day (even before having problems).

• Stay at a healthy weight.

• Avoid lifting super heavy things.

• Quit smoking (to stop coughing so much).

When to See a Doctor

If you notice:
✔ A bulge or pressure in your vagina.
✔ Pee leaks when you laugh or sneeze.
✔ Pain or discomfort that won’t go away.

POP is very common (especially in moms and older women) and can be fixed, so don’t be shy to ask your doctor about it!