Understanding Vaginal Prolapse
Vaginal prolapse, also known as pelvic organ prolapse (POP), occurs when the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor weaken, causing one or more of the pelvic organs—such as the bladder, uterus, or bowel—to drop or bulge into the vagina. While it can feel distressing, it is a very common condition that affects many women, particularly as they age or following childbirth.
You do not have to live in discomfort. Led by Dr. Harinakshi Salian-Murugkar, who brings over 30 years of specialist gynaecological experience, Cardiff Gynaecology Clinic provides a supportive, highly confidential environment to assess your symptoms. We are dedicated to providing women-centred care, ensuring you feel heard, understood, and empowered in choosing the right treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors
A weakened pelvic floor can develop over time due to a combination of physiological and lifestyle factors, including:
Multiple vaginal deliveries, prolonged labour, or delivering large babies can stretch and strain the pelvic floor muscles.
The natural decline in oestrogen levels during and after menopause weakens the pelvic tissues, reducing their elasticity and support.
Chronic conditions such as persistent coughing, chronic constipation, or regular heavy lifting.
Being overweight or obese puts additional, constant strain on the pelvic floor.
Some women are born with naturally weaker connective tissues, making them more predisposed to prolapse.
Common Symptoms to Look Out For
The symptoms of a vaginal prolapse can range from mild to severely impacting your daily life. You should seek specialist advice if you experience:
- A Feeling of Heaviness: A dragging sensation, pressure, or fullness in the pelvis or lower back, which often worsens after standing for long periods.
- A Noticeable Bulge: Feeling or seeing a lump protruding from or inside the vagina.
- Urinary Difficulties: Experiencing urinary incontinence (leaking), feeling the frequent urge to urinate, or having trouble fully emptying your bladder.
- Bowel Issues: Difficulty having a bowel movement or feeling as though the bowel isn’t completely empty.
- Discomfort During Intimacy: Experiencing pain, reduced sensation, or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Expert Diagnosis and Treatment Options
At Cardiff Gynaecology Clinic, we believe in a highly personalised approach. Following a gentle, comprehensive pelvic examination to determine the type and severity of your prolapse, our specialist team will create a tailored treatment plan designed for your lifestyle. Options may include:
- Lifestyle and Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Guidance on targeted pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), weight management, and techniques to avoid straining, often in conjunction with a specialist physiotherapist.
- Vaginal Pessaries: The fitting of a small, removable silicone device worn inside the vagina to hold the pelvic organs securely in place—a highly effective, non-surgical solution.
- Localised Hormonal Therapy: Prescription of topical vaginal oestrogen (creams or tablets) to restore tissue strength, improve elasticity, and ease discomfort, especially for postmenopausal women.
- Specialist Referrals: If your prolapse is severe and conservative treatments are insufficient, we will provide expert guidance and coordinate a referral for advanced surgical management.
Take Control of Your Intimate Health
Ready to find clarity and relief? Book a confidential consultation with our specialist team in Cardiff today. We ensure every concern is heard, understood, and expertly addressed.
