Pelvic Organ Prolapse, or POP, is a symptom that affects many people but is not always openly discussed. It occurs when one or more pelvic organs—such as the bladder, bowel, or uterus—shift from their normal position and descend, often resting against the vaginal wall. While some degree of movement is considered normal, a prolapse is diagnosed when symptoms are present. What Does POP Feel Like? People with POP often describe a sense of heaviness or dragging in the pelvis. Others may notice a bulge in or outside the vagina, discomfort during daily activities, or a feeling that something is “coming down.” POP can also affect bladder and bowel function, leading to symptoms like incomplete emptying or frequent urgency. What Increases the Risk of POP? The most significant risk factor for developing POP is vaginal childbirth. However, it's not just childbirth itself, but certain factors around the delivery that play a role: Birth weight over 4kg Pushing for less than 20 minutes or more than 2 hours Obstructed labour or instrumental delivery (forceps, vacuum) Other contributing lifestyle factors include: Chronic constipation or long-term straining Persistent coughing (e.g., due to asthma or smoking) Heavy lifting over extended periods Family history of prolapse Menopause, due to hormonal changes affecting tissue support Conservative Treatment Options For many people, POP can be managed conservatively without surgery. Treatment may include: Pelvic Floor Muscle Training : Strengthening these muscles improves the support they provide to pelvic organs. Horizontal Rest : Lying down throughout the day can help reduce the sensation of heaviness and give your body time to recover. Hormonal Therapies : Your doctor may prescribe topical oestrogen to help strengthen vaginal tissues, particularly after menopause. Pessary Use : A pessary is a small silicone device inserted into the vagina to provide internal support for the organs. Lifestyle Modifications : Addressing chronic constipation or cough and avoiding unsafe repetitive heavy lifting can reduce strain on the pelvic floor. For personalised guidance, it’s important to consult a qualified pelvic health physiotherapist who can tailor your treatment to your specific needs and goals. When Is Surgery Considered? In more severe cases of prolapse, or when conservative measures do not relieve symptoms, surgery may be recommended. If this is the case, your healthcare provider will refer you to a specialist for a comprehensive assessment and to discuss your surgical options. Conclusion Pelvic Organ Prolapse is common, but with the right support and management strategies, it doesn’t have to limit your quality of life. Early intervention through physiotherapy and lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms and help you feel confident in your body again. If you're experiencing symptoms or want to know more, reach out to a pelvic health physiotherapist to explore your options.

The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in supporting your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. While much attention is given to strengthening these muscles, it’s just as important to understand when they are overactive —meaning they have difficulty relaxing or letting go. Overactivity in the pelvic floor can contribute to a wide range of symptoms, often overlooked or misdiagnosed. What Are Overactive Pelvic Floor Muscles? Overactive pelvic floor muscles are muscles that remain tense or tight when they should be able to relax. This tension may be constant or triggered by certain activities, positions, or stressors. Some common causes include: Ongoing pelvic, hip, or lower back pain Chronic conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, or bladder/urethral pain Recurrent vaginal infections (e.g., thrush or UTIs) or vulval skin disorders Holding stress or anxiety in the abdomen or pelvis High-intensity or repetitive exercise Past trauma, including childbirth or emotional/sexual experiences Even athletes or those who do frequent pelvic floor exercises may develop tightness—sometimes without realizing it. Signs and Symptoms of Overactivity Symptoms can vary, but people with overactive pelvic floor muscles often report: Bladder symptoms: Difficulty starting urination Slow or interrupted urine stream A feeling of incomplete emptying Bowel symptoms: Thin or pellet-like stools Incomplete evacuation Difficulty releasing wind Intimacy-related symptoms: Pain with penetration or deep intercourse Discomfort or pain during tampon use or pap smears Vaginal burning, aching, spasms, or tenderness Difficulty achieving orgasm These symptoms are not “just in your head”—they are often signs that your pelvic floor may be holding more tension than it should. Treatment Options If you suspect your pelvic floor muscles may be overactive, a pelvic health physiotherapist can help. At Pelvic Health Melbourne , our team is trained to assess your pelvic floor function and tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs. Treatment may include: Manual therapy to release tight pelvic floor muscles Pelvic floor downtraining and stretches to improve relaxation Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, gentle movement, or listening to calming music Use of heat packs to reduce muscle tension and pain We’ll also help you explore lifestyle changes and emotional support to address any underlying contributors to pelvic tension. You Don’t Have to Live With Discomfort. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek support. Many people live with pelvic floor dysfunction for years without realising the cause of their discomfort. Early assessment and treatment can make a significant difference. Book an appointment with our team at Pelvic Health Melbourne and take the first step toward feeling better in your body.

Understanding the Pelvic Floor: What It Is and Why It Matters The pelvic floor is a vital yet often overlooked part of our body. It plays a significant role in supporting several important functions, from bladder control to sexual health. In this blog, we’ll explore what the pelvic floor is, its functions, and why it’s essential for overall well-being. What is the Pelvic Floor? The pelvic floor refers to a group of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that stretch like a hammock across the bottom of the pelvis. It forms the base of the abdomen and supports the bladder, uterus, rectum, and small intestine. Think of it as a supportive structure that holds these organs in place, ensuring that they function properly. These muscles are responsible for several key functions, including: Supporting pelvic organs: The pelvic floor muscles help keep the bladder, uterus, rectum, and small intestine from sagging or shifting. Controlling urination and bowel movements: The pelvic floor muscles help control the release of urine and feces. When the muscles are healthy, they can help you hold and release waste at appropriate times. Sexual health: These muscles play a role in sexual arousal and orgasm. In both men and women, a strong pelvic floor can enhance sexual experience and satisfaction. Childbirth support: In women, the pelvic floor muscles help during childbirth by assisting in the delivery process. Why is the Pelvic Floor Important? The pelvic floor is crucial for maintaining proper function in several areas of life. When these muscles weaken or become damaged, it can lead to a variety of issues, such as: Urinary Incontinence: Weak pelvic floor muscles can lead to difficulty controlling urination, causing leakage, especially when coughing, laughing, or exercising. Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP): If the pelvic floor muscles are too weak to support the pelvic organs, they can slip out of place, leading to conditions like bladder prolapse or uterine prolapse. Constipation: A weak pelvic floor can make it harder to control bowel movements, potentially leading to constipation. Pain During Sex: A tense or weak pelvic floor can cause discomfort or pain during intercourse. Postpartum Recovery: After childbirth, the pelvic floor may be weakened, leading to issues with incontinence or prolapse symptoms. How to Keep Your Pelvic Floor Healthy Maintaining pelvic floor health is essential for both men and women, and there are several ways to strengthen and care for these muscles: Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegel Exercises): Kegels are exercises that target and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. To perform them, simply contract the muscles you would use to stop urination and hold for a few seconds, then release. Regular practice can help improve muscle tone and control. Avoid Straining: Straining during bowel movements or lifting heavy objects can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. Ensure you use proper technique when lifting, and try to prevent constipation by eating fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts added pressure on the pelvic floor, so maintaining a healthy weight can reduce strain and prevent weakening of the muscles. Stay Active: Regular exercise, including pelvic floor exercises, helps improve circulation and muscle tone. Yoga and Pilates can also be beneficial in strengthening these muscles. Posture Awareness: Maintaining good posture throughout daily activities can reduce strain on the pelvic floor and support proper muscle function. When to Seek Help If you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consult a healthcare provider for an assessment of your pelvic floor health: Uncontrolled leakage of urine or feces A feeling of heaviness or bulging in the pelvic area Pain or discomfort during sex Difficulty with bowel movements Frequent urges to urinate, especially at night At Pelvic Health Melbourne, we can provide personalized exercises and treatment options to address your pelvic floor dysfunction. Conclusion The pelvic floor is a powerful yet delicate system that plays a key role in daily life, from maintaining organ function to supporting sexual health. By understanding its importance and taking steps to strengthen and care for these muscles, you can prevent and manage issues like incontinence, prolapse, and discomfort. Whether through pelvic floor exercises, weight management, or posture awareness, maintaining pelvic health is essential for overall well-being. If you’re experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, don’t hesitate to contact us —early intervention can make a significant difference in managing these conditions and improving quality of life.