Pelvic organ prolapse
VAGINAL PROLAPSE
Our leading gynaecologists can diagnose and treat vaginal prolapse with advanced reconstructive surgery
What is vaginal prolapse?
Need to know
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Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse icon plus
A woman may experience different types of prolapse as different areas of pelvic floor muscle weaken. It's possible for the uterus, rectum, bowel or bladder to fall into the vagina. General symptoms of vaginal prolapse include:
- a heavy feeling in the pelvis
- feeling as though you're sitting on a small ball
- feeling as though something is coming out of the vagina
- difficulty passing urine and an increased need to visit the toilet
- numbness during sex
- passing urine when you sneeze or exert yourself
- constipation
If you can see a lump of bulge coming out the vagina, you may need to seek urgent medical help.
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Diagnosis icon plus
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you and help to make a diagnosis. You may ask to see a consultant for a physical examination. He or she will feel for any lumps in the pelvic area and vagina. They may also use a speculum — an instrument used during a smear test — to see inside the vaginal walls and check for signs of prolapse. A prolapsed rectum may involve a rectal exam. Your consultant may also suggest a urine test to check for infection. -
Potential treatment options icon plus
Your consultant will discuss your treatment options and help to determine the best approach for you. If the prolapse is causing mild symptoms, they may recommend pelvic floor exercises to help strengthen the muscles in this area. They may order obliterative or reconstructive surgery if the prolapse is severe. The first closes off the vagina in order to support the trapped organs. The second reconstructs the pelvic floor using a woman's own soft tissue and returns organs to their original condition. This surgery is either performed through the vagina or through the abdomen, causing less pain during sex.
Our consultants
Our facilities
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344