By discussing these alternatives openly with healthcare providers during consultations inspired by Breaking The Silence’s resources empowers women to make informed decisions about their treatment. Breaking the Silence also plays a vital role in advocating for improved healthcare services and support systems for POP patients. By amplifying the voices of those affected, this initiative raises awareness among policymakers and medical professionals about the need for better access to specialized care, affordable treatments, and psychological support. These conversations help break down barriers that prevent women from seeking help or feeling ashamed of their condition. Pelvic Health Matters Addressing Pelvic Organ Prolapse Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition that affects many women worldwide. One of the primary causes is weakened pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the organs in the pelvis and help maintain their proper position.
However, childbirth, aging, obesity, chronic coughing or constipation can weaken these muscles over time. Symptoms of POP may vary depending on its severity but commonly include a feeling of pressure or fullness in the vagina or pelvis area. Some women also experience urinary problems like frequent urination or leakage (stress urinary incontinence), difficulty emptying their bladder completely (urinary retention), or even recurrent urinary tract infections due to incomplete voiding. In addition to urinary issues, POP can also lead to bowel movement difficulties such as constipation or fecal incontinence. Sexual dysfunction may occur too since some women find intercourse painful due to organ displacement. Fortunately, there are treatment options available for those suffering from pelvic organ prolapse
Pelvic Floor Exercises Also known as Kegel exercises; they involve contracting and relaxing your pelvic floor muscles regularly to strengthen them over time. Pessaries These are removable devices inserted into the vagina to provide support for sagging organs temporarily. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Estrogen therapy helps improve tissue elasticity and strength within the vaginal walls which might alleviate some symptoms associated with POP. Surgery In severe pelvic organ prolapse cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged tissues and restore normal anatomy. It’s important to note that prevention is key when it comes to pelvic organ prolapse. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight, can help reduce the risk of developing POP. Additionally, practicing proper lifting techniques and avoiding heavy lifting altogether can also minimize strain on the pelvic floor muscles.