Medically Reviewed by W. Brad Campbell, MD

From a presentation by Dr. Brad Campbell McLeod OB/GYN Associates

Working on a farm or on an assembly line are just two risks that can cause the embarrassing – but not fatal – problem of pelvic organ prolapse, says Brad Campbell, MD of McLeod OB/GYN Associates.

Here are some points from Dr. Campbell’s video:

• Some women will not have any symptoms.
• Patients with symptoms frequently describe a “dragging” sensation in their lower pelvis.  Some women will complain of leaking urine if they cough or sneeze, a symptom of incontinence, as well.
• Women should be comfortable talking to their doctor about this problem.
  Pelvic organ prolapse is a relaxation of the connecting tissue (called fascia) around the vagina. Fascia’s role is to keep what’s inside the vagina – inside, and what’s outside, outside.
• Risk factors include:  having multiple children, particularly large babies – vaginal deliveries and C-sections both have equal risk. Prolapse becomes more likely after menopause. Obesity also increases the chances of having some element of a pelvic organ prolapse. Finally, there are women with chronically elevated pressure inside their stomach areas, such as people who have chronic cough from smoking or work on a farm lifting hay bales all day long.In essence, women who overuse their stomach muscles are more likely to suffer from pelvic organ prolapse.

You may also find these articles helpful:

Yes, There is Sex After Prolapse.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Symptoms & Treatments. 

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