As we approach Pelvic Organ Prolapse Awareness Month this June, it’s time to shine a light on a condition that affects 1 in 2 women who have given birth – and yet, is rarely spoken about openly.
At Masnad Health Clinic, we believe education is the first step toward empowerment. If you’ve ever felt a heaviness in your pelvis, or experienced a bulging sensation in your vaginal area, it’s possible you could be experiencing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) – and there is support available.
Let’s explore what POP actually is, how it happens, and how women’s health physiotherapy plays a vital role in helping women feel stronger, more confident, and in control of their pelvic health.
🌸 What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)?
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs – such as the bladder, uterus, or bowel – shift out of their normal position and press against the walls of the vagina. This happens when the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues that support these organs become stretched, weakened, or damaged.
Common causes of prolapse include:
- Vaginal childbirth (especially with large babies or forceps delivery)
- Chronic coughing or constipation
- Heavy lifting over time
- Menopause (due to hormonal changes affecting tissue strength)
- Previous pelvic surgeries
👇 What Might Pelvic Organ Prolapse Feel Like?
While some women don’t notice any symptoms, others may experience:
- A bulging or heavy sensation in the vagina
- A feeling like something is “falling down”
- Discomfort with prolonged standing or walking
- Bladder or bowel changes, such as urgency or incomplete emptying
- Difficulty with sexual intercourse
These symptoms may worsen toward the end of the day, after prolonged standing, or during physical exertion.
💡 How Can Women’s Health Physiotherapy Help?
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to wait for things to get worse – or jump straight to surgery. Seeing a women’s health physiotherapist early can make a significant difference in both managing and preventing the progression of prolapse.
Here’s how we can help at Masnad Health Clinic:
1. Detailed Pelvic Floor Assessment
Using both internal vaginal examination and external real-time ultrasound outside (when appropriate), we assess the function of your pelvic floor muscles – identifying whether they are weak, overactive, or not coordinating well.
2. Individualised Pelvic Floor Muscle Training
Once we understand how your pelvic floor is functioning, we develop a tailored exercise plan to rebuild strength and support. This includes more than just Kegels—it’s about correct activation, breathing coordination, and building pressure management strategies.
3. Education Around Lifestyle & Symptom Management
We’ll discuss posture, lifting techniques, toileting habits, and the importance of fibre and hydration for bowel health. These day-to-day changes can reduce symptoms and prevent worsening.
4. Pessary Fitting (if appropriate)
We also offer vaginal pessary fitting, a safe and effective device that can help support the pelvic organs and alleviate symptoms—particularly for women not yet ready for surgery or who want to remain active.
5. Postpartum & Menopause Support
Whether you’re newly postpartum or entering menopause, your needs change over time. We provide ongoing support tailored to your life stage.
✅ Why Early Support Matters
Pelvic organ prolapse is common—but it’s not something you have to accept as ‘normal’. Addressing symptoms early with conservative care often leads to better outcomes, improved quality of life, and greater long-term control.
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms, have a history of childbirth, or simply want to learn how to best care for your pelvic floor, a women’s health physiotherapy assessment is a great place to start.
📅 Book a Pelvic Floor Assessment Today
At Masnad Health Clinic in Bankstown, we offer compassionate, expert care for women at every stage of life. To book your confidential pelvic floor consultation, call our clinic or Book Online Today.
Let’s make this June about awareness, education, and action.
Masnad Health Clinic – Because your pelvic health matters.
