Can you repair a prolapsed bladder without surgery? Tips to Relieve Discomfort and Stop Leaks

One of the most common symptoms of bladder prolapse is the feeling that something is bulging or pushing into the vagina, especially after standing for a long time or doing physical activity. You may also feel a sudden urge to pee or even Urinary incontinence. While a bladder prolapse is usually not painful, it can be uncomfortable and annoying.

“Prolapse is something we typically see in women in their 60s or 70s, although it can happen earlier,” adds Dr. Swenson added. “It’s one of those conditions that develops over time when the pelvic floor becomes weaker and can no longer support the organs as it once did.”

Effective non-surgical treatments for bladder prolapse

Even if you can’t fix a prolapsed bladder without surgery, you can successfully manage your symptoms and possibly avoid surgery altogether. Aside from eating a high-fiber diet to avoid straining during bowel movements and avoiding heavy lifting—both important when treating a prolapse—there are two effective treatment options worth trying:

Practice pelvic floor physical therapy

Targeted Pelvic floor exercises are the first line of defense in treating bladder prolapse, says Dr. Swenson. This therapy goes beyond simple Kegel exercises and strengthens the muscles that support your pelvic organs. Dr. Swenson says it’s important to see a therapist who specializes in pelvic health, rather than a general physical therapist, to ensure you get the right treatment.

While you wait for an appointment, check out three simple pelvic floor exercises below that can help with bladder prolapse and pelvic floor dysfunction:

Try a vaginal pessary

A vaginal pessary is a simple, non-surgical option for treating bladder prolapse. The most common type, the ring, is a small silicone device that you insert into the vagina to hold everything in place. Pessaries have actually been around for thousands of years – Cleopatra is even rumored to have used one made from pomegranate, notes Dr. Swenson.

A vaginal ring pessary is self-administering, meaning you can remove and clean it once a week. It provides everyday support and is comfortable to wear all day long. In more advanced cases, consider space-occupying pessaries. They provide additional support but typically require regular check-ups every few months for cleaning and adjustment.

When should surgery be considered for bladder prolapse?

While non-surgical treatments for pelvic organ prolapse work well for many women, they are not a permanent solution. “Pessaries and physiotherapy relieve the symptoms, but do not cure the prolapse,” explains Dr. Swenson. In more severe cases or if the bladder prolapse significantly impacts daily life, surgery may be the next step.

Surgery restores support to the vaginal wall and holds the bladder in place. The good news? Minimally invasive techniques mean shorter recovery times and less downtime. “We always try conservative treatments first,” adds Dr. Swenson added.

The end result

A bladder prolapse can be overwhelming, but you shouldn’t ignore it or be ashamed of it. Like Dr. Swenson states, “The goal is not just to fix the prolapse, but to improve your quality of life.” That’s what treatment is about: helping you feel better, not just about your body, but about it “To live your life the way you want.”

Read on to learn more ways to improve bladder health

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This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your doctor before pursuing any treatment plan.