Imagine a sling of muscles making a hammock connecting your two sit bones, pubic bone and tail bone. This group of muscles is responsible for:
- Supporting abdominal and pelvic organs
- Controlling continence
- Urinating, defaecation, childbirth and sexual activity
Your pelvic organs – bladder, bowel and uterus are held by your pelvic floor muscle and pelvic ligaments. If this support structure is weakened, these organs can start to bulge or ‘slip’ through
SYMPTOMS:
- Women with a mild prolapse may have no symptoms
- A heavy or dragging sensation in the saddle area
- You may feel a bulge when you wipe yourself
- Pain or lack of sensation during sex
- Recurring urinary tract infections
CAUSES
- Pelvic floor weakness
- Genetic predisposition
- Childbirth – especially if baby is heavy (>4kg) or if forceps were used
- History of multiple natural vaginal deliveries
- Chronic coughing
- Excessive weight gain
- Repetitive heavy lifting