Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a condition in which the urethra, bladder, and other organs slip through an opening in the vaginal wall.

What Causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse is usually caused by damage to the tissues (muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue) that support the pelvic organs. Damage or stretching of these tissues allows the organs to move out of their normal positions, causing them to press against (and sometimes move) the inside walls of the vagina.

Having a baby makes it more likely that you will have pelvic organ prolapse later. Vaginal childbirth has been strongly linked to weakened and stretched support structures in the pelvic area. This loss of support is the biggest cause of pelvic organ prolapsed.

POP is also linked to lower levels of estrogen in the body. Estrogen levels are lower during and after menopause. The lower levels of estrogen in the body mean less collagen, a protein that helps the pelvic connective tissues stretch and return to their normal positions.

Symptoms of Pelvic Organ ProlapsePelvic Organ Prolapse

Many women don’t have any symptoms of POP. Those who do may experience a feeling of vaginal or pelvic fullness or pressure. They may also experience incontinence, uncomfortable intercourse, pain in the pelvic area unrelated to menstruation, lower back pain, and difficulty with stool.

Until recently, Pelvic Organ Prolapse was previously treated with a pelvic, vaginal, or transvaginal mesh. The mesh was made into a sling-like device and used to support the bladder and other organs. On July 13, 2011, the FDA issued a warning to doctors and healthcare professionals regarding the use of these mesh devices.

The FDA recommended alternative treatments to fix Pelvic  Prolapse.

Prior to issuing the statement, over 1,000 women filed complaints with the FDA regarding their mesh devices. The women complained of suffering from:

  • severe pain,
  • serious infection,
  • bleeding,
  • painful sexual intercourse, and
  • erosion of the device

If you have suffered from Pelvic Organ Prolapse and had a mesh device implanted to correct the problem, contact us today for your free confidential consultation. The attorneys at the Strom Law Firm, LLC understand that Pelvic  Prolapse is a very personal condition. We will provide you with a female attorney who can assist you every step of the way. Contact us today, 803.252.4800.

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