Prolapse and the Pelvic Floor

What is Prolapse? 

 

 

Prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, descend into, or through, the vaginal canal. This happens due to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues that normally support these organs. 

There are several types of prolapse, including: 

• Uterine Prolapse (uterus prolapse)
• Cystocele (bladder prolapse) 
• Rectocele (rectal prolapse) 

Each type can range in severity from Stage 1 (mild) to Stage 4 (severe). In the early stages, pelvic floor physical therapy is often effective. More advanced cases, such as stages 3 and 4, may require surgical intervention. Starting pelvic floor therapy early can make a significant difference. Waiting to get started with treatment often leads to worsening symptoms. In-network facilities often have long waitlists, sometimes 2-3 months, which delays you from starting to get the care you need, and makes it harder and longer to see progress.

 

What does it feel like? 

People experiencing prolapse often describe a sensation of pressure, heaviness, or fullness in the pelvic region. It can be uncomfortable during physical activity, and lead to complications with bladder and bowel function. People who experience more severe forms are sometimes unable to insert tampons due to the pelvic organs blocking the insertion opening. 

 

Why Address Prolapse Holistically? 

Prolapse affects more than just the pelvic floor, it impacts overall health and quality of life. This is why addressing it holistically is so important. At V Strong Physical Therapy, we look beyond the symptoms and treat the root causes. Nutrition and lifestyle play a major role. It’s so important that we address constipation if that is going on since that can contribute towards symptoms of “heaviness” and make the prolapse worse due to pressure from the stool itself and straining habits. Treatment can look like colon massage or abdominal massage to help with areas of restrictions that are contributing to the constipation. Diet wise we encourage patients to have more water and fiber if needed. We also recommend pelvic-friendly foods like apricots, watermelon, non-citrus fruits, and herbal teas. In contrast, we recommend avoiding or limiting spicy or acidic foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can irritate the pelvic region and worsen symptoms. 

Our approach goes beyond what traditional insurance-based care typically offers. Insurance restrictions often result in shorter appointments, long waitlists, and limited care. We believe you deserve more. Our programs are a long-term investment on your health, founded on principles of your goals, lifestyle, and your body. 

 

Our Signature Method: Reset, Strengthen, Confidence (RSC)

The three phase RSC program is designed to restore pelvic function and support long-term wellness. Most patients begin seeing results within a few short weeks, although progress varies by individual. On average, our core program lasts between three to five months, and many patients choose to return for maintenance check-ins, ranging from bi-weekly to every few months to ensure steady progress.

 

Improving Quality of Life 

Prolapse commonly affects postmenopausal women, women who have given birth vaginally, and individuals with physically demanding lifestyles. Though common, prolapse is not normal, and is not something you should have to live with. It can interfere with daily routines, exercise, and even basic bodily functions. At V Strong Physical Therapy, we’re here to help you reach and maintain your goals, long-term.

 

Read more about V Strong Physical Therapy, the best physical therapy program, and find out how pelvic floor physical therapy can benefit you! We’re excited to help you start on your pelvic floor journey.

https://vstrongphysicaltherapy.com/about/

 

Works Cited

 

Kuo, Chu-Hsuan. “Pelvic Organ Prolapse.” StatPearls [Internet]., June 26, 2025. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563229/.