Early Signs of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- Dr. Jackson
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Pelvic pressure. A dragging sensation. A feeling of fullness you can’t explain. These early symptoms often leave women wondering what’s actually going on. When the pelvic floor loses its support, the organs above it, like the uterus, bladder, or rectum, can shift downward. That shift is pelvic organ prolapse.
Prolapse is far more common than most women realize. It affects roughly one in five women in the United States. And like most pelvic floor issues, it doesn’t improve by ignoring it. Early recognition is key.
What Pelvic Organ Prolapse Actually Is
Your pelvic organs are supported by a network of muscles and connective tissues. When those supports stretch, weaken, or tear, often due to childbirth, aging, or chronic pressure, the organs start to drop. In early stages, the symptoms can feel vague. As it progresses, the organ can descend into the vagina or, in more severe cases, protrude outward.
Early Symptoms You Should Pay Attention To
The first signs are often subtle but persistent. Common early symptoms include:
A constant feeling of pelvic pressure or heaviness
A sense of vaginal fullness or something “falling out”
Discomfort that worsens with standing, lifting, or sex
Low back pressure that isn’t relieved by stretching
Urinary changes — leakage, hesitancy, or incomplete emptying
Bowel symptoms — constipation, straining, or difficulty passing stool
Many women notice symptoms more at the end of the day or after activity. Others describe feeling or seeing a small bulge at the vaginal opening.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Certain factors make pelvic organ prolapse more likely. These include:
Vaginal childbirth, especially with large babies
Multiple deliveries
Recent pregnancy
Chronic coughing or heavy lifting
Constipation and frequent straining
Menopause and loss of estrogen support
Obesity or increased abdominal pressure
How Prolapse Is Evaluated
Evaluation starts with a pelvic exam and a clear conversation about your symptoms. Your bladder and rectum may also be assessed depending on what you’re experiencing. Additional testing is sometimes used when the diagnosis isn’t obvious or when urinary symptoms are significant.
Treatment Options That Actually Help
Treatment is tailored to your symptoms and your stage of prolapse. Early prolapse can often be managed without surgery. Options include:
Pelvic floor physical therapy to strengthen support
Lifestyle changes to reduce abdominal pressure
Improving bowel regularity and fiber intake
Weight optimization
A pessary: a supportive device placed vaginally
A pessary is a simple, effective option that helps many women avoid or delay surgery. It’s fitted in the office and can be removed and cleaned at home depending on the type.
When prolapse becomes more advanced or significantly affects quality of life, surgical repair may be recommended. The approach depends on which organs are involved and your long-term goals.
When to Seek Help
If you’re noticing pelvic pressure, fullness, or urinary or bowel changes, don’t wait. Prolapse is easier to manage when caught early. A thorough evaluation gives you clarity and lets you choose the right treatment path.
Listen to Dr Jackson go into detail about this topic! You can hear the full episode on her podcast, Ageless and Outrageous. Be sure to like and follow so you don’t miss an episode!
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION AT ADVANCED UROGYNECOLOGY
At Advanced Urogynecology in Maitland, Florida, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based care for women experiencing pelvic floor disorders, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and conditions that affect quality of life. Our focus is on restoring comfort, function, and confidence through both conservative and advanced treatment options.
Our practice is led by Dr. Kristin Jackson, a double board-certified urogynecologic surgeon with more than 20 years of surgical experience. She personally evaluates patients, develops individualized treatment plans, and performs all surgical procedures. With extensive expertise in complex pelvic reconstructive surgery as well as minimally invasive therapies, Dr. Jackson ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of specialized, compassionate care.
At Advanced Urogynecology, your care is physician-directed, thoughtfully delivered, and grounded in experience.