Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a condition that occurs when pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, descend into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. Though a common condition among women of reproductive age, being diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse can feel overwhelming. In most mild cases, pelvic organ prolapse may not exhibit any symptoms and typically goes unnoticed. However, symptoms may affect one’s daily activities if the prolapse advances to a more severe stage.

 Typically, this condition is characterized by a feeling of constant heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region. Walking, a seemingly simple task becomes a challenge as the descent of pelvic organs hinders normal mobility. This article explores how understanding and addressing pelvic organ prolapse walking difficulties can significantly improve the quality of life for those struggling with it.

Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse

As mentioned earlier, pelvic organ prolapse occurs when pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus, or rectum drop or bulge into the vaginal canal due to weakened support tissues and ligaments. Factors such as multiple childbirths, vaginal delivery, late first pregnancies, aging, obesity, a history of pelvic surgery, chronic constipation, and persistent cough can increase the susceptibility of pelvic organ prolapse.

Common symptoms of this condition include a feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area, pain in the lower back region, difficulty in walking, difficulty in urination and bowel movements, urinary incontinence, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. Recognizing the risk factors and symptoms of POP is crucial for prevention and early intervention. Seeking immediate medical attention can help manage pelvic organ prolapse and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. It is important to understand that POP does not heal or go away with time, but instead will likely worsen over time without treatment intervention.

The Relationship Between Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Difficulty Walking

Understanding the relationship between pelvic organ prolapse and difficulty walking can help navigate through the challenge more proactively. Prolapse, or slipping of the pelvic organs from their original position into the vaginal canal, can impact mobility. The severity of difficulty walking may vary depending on the type and extent of organ prolapse. The pain and feeling of pressure in your lower abdomen region can make sitting, standing, or walking challenging, affecting your usual daily activities. The next section will discuss the medical measures that can help manage pelvic health and difficulty walking.

Medical Considerations

There are diverse approaches to managing pelvic organ prolapse, and your healthcare professional can guide you through the most suitable options based on your specific condition. Treatment options for mild-to-moderate prolapse often include non-surgical interventions, such as lifestyle modifications, pelvic floor exercises, pessary use, and external support devices like. FemiCushion. These methods aim to strengthen the supportive pelvic structures and alleviate painful symptoms. Additionally, your doctor may advise you on rehabilitation and physical therapy to address difficulties with walking and mobility.

If the prolapse has advanced to a severe stage, your physician may advise you to undergo surgical intervention. Surgical options for pelvic organ prolapse include procedures such as anterior or posterior repair, where the front or back vaginal walls are reinforced. Another approach involves hysterectomy, the removal of the uterus for uterine prolapse, often coupled with additional support measures like mesh implants or grafts to restore pelvic structure. These surgeries aim to alleviate symptoms and improve the overall structural integrity of the pelvic region, allowing you to walk with ease again.

Coping Strategies

Coping with walking difficulties while struggling with pelvic organ prolapse requires patience and resilience. Start by making small lifestyle adjustments, like doing pelvic floor exercises regularly, to strengthen the muscles supporting your organs. Maintaining a healthy weight through good nutrition can also help reduce strain on your pelvic area and make walking easier.

You can also consider using supportive devices, such as pelvic support garments like FemiCushion to provide extra assistance, comfort, and enhance mobility. We recommend choosing comfortable shoes and, if needed, a walking aid like a cane.

Prioritize your emotional wellness which is equally as important to physical wellness. Share your feelings with friends, family, or your healthcare professional. There are also many support groups created by women who are dealing with the same condition you can join online. Seeking support can make a big difference. Embracing these steps will help empower you to manage pelvic organ prolapse and lead an active, fulfilling life.

Exercises and Rehabilitation

Exercise is probably the most advised treatment option for mild-to-moderate cases of pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic floor exercises for improved mobility include Kegels, which involves contracting the pelvic floor muscles for a few seconds and then relaxing them. Practicing multiple sets of this exercise daily can help strengthen the connective tissues supporting pelvic organs, restore muscle tone, and alleviate symptoms.

Physical therapy interventions, such as targeted stretches and strengthening exercises, can also help alleviate walking difficulties associated with prolapse. Your healthcare professional or physical therapist can help you formulate a personalized exercise regimen, fostering a comprehensive approach to pelvic organ prolapse management and promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Adapting Daily Activities

Simple adjustments in your daily activities can enhance your comfort and mobility when you are facing difficulty walking due to pelvic organ prolapse. It involves simple adjustments for enhanced comfort and mobility. At home, you can consider organizing frequently used items within easy reach, minimizing the need to bend or strain. You can also consider installing handrails or grab bars in key areas like the bathroom to provide extra support. Choosing comfortable and supportive footwear is one of the walking solutions for organ prolapse patients.

In your workplace, you may discuss potential modifications with employers, such as ergonomic seating or breaks to avoid prolonged periods of standing. Utilize assistive devices like a rolling cart for carrying items. By making these practical adjustments both at home and work, you can navigate daily activities more comfortably, maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle despite the challenges posed by pelvic organ prolapse.

The Bottom Line:

Addressing difficulty walking with pelvic organ prolapse involves a multifaceted approach. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms of prolapse can help navigate the challenges of the condition. Seeking timely professional help and adopting certain lifestyle modifications like a healthy diet and exercise can help manage pelvic organ prolapse effectively. Surgical interventions offer solutions for advanced cases, restoring structural integrity and facilitating ease of movement. Coping strategies, including seeking emotional support and using supportive devices, can help you lead a more confident and active life.

Supervising Doctor of This Article

Koichi Nagao, MD PhD

Professor, Department of Urology, Toho University Faculty of Medicine
Director of Urinary tract reconstruction center, Toho University Omori Medical Center
Director of Reproduction Center, Toho University Omori Medical Center

Professor Nagao specializes in plastic surgery in the field of reproductive medicine. He completed eight years of plastic surgery training at Showa University before majoring in urology at Toho University. With his meticulous surgical techniques and careful examinations that combines urology and plastic surgery, Professor Nagao became a Board Certified Specialist with multiple associations including the Japanese Urological Association, the Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine, and the Japanese Society for Sexual Medicine.