What are the Dos and Don’ts of Prolapse?

There is a lot of misinformation out there about prolapse and how to treat it. Let me simplify a few things:

If you have a prolapse, here are some tips to consider:  

Do’s of Prolapse:

• Relief position – Lie down on your back and place your calves on a stool or chair to relieve some of the pelvic pressure. You can try placing a pillow under your hips too.

• Eat lots of fibre – If you have constipation, treat it! The easier the bowel movements, the less stress on the pelvic floor.

• Train the muscles – Practice supervised physiotherapy training. This may include pelvic floor muscle and core retraining and strengthening.

• Consider a pessary – Talk to your care team to see if this is an option for you!

Don'ts of Prolapse:

• Don’t strain on the toilet.

• Don’t stand all the time. Alternate activities to relieve pelvic pressure.

• Don’t stop breathing when you are exercising.

What is a pessary? 

A pessary is a plastic or silicone device that is temporarily or permanently inserted into the vagina (or rectum). A pessary provides extra support to reduce the protrusion of the bladder, uterus or rectum into the vaginal wall. Pessaries can be fitted by trained Pelvic Health Physiotherapists, Registered Nurse Practitioners and Gynecologists.

If you suspect that you have a prolapse and you need more information, contact me and I can create an action plan to help!