Pelvic Relaxation

These problems are often referred to as a "dropped bladder" or "dropped uterus" and are actually the result of hernias in one or more layers of the pelvic floor.

There are many symptoms associated with these structural defects including pain, urinary leakage, difficulty urinating or difficulty with bowel movements. Symptoms can also include low back pain, pelvic pressure, pain with intercourse or sometimes tissue will bulge through the vaginal opening.

There are both surgical and non-surgical treatments for these hernias, including pelvic exercises, pessary devices as well as surgical repair. The newer surgical procedures for repair of the pelvic floor are substantially different from the older operations, often using a fine mesh implant to increase the strength of the repair.

Recovery from these operations is easier and long term outcomes are much better. These operations have been available for about 5 years and can also frequently be done as an outpatient procedure. You can obtain further information by visiting their website www.voicesforpfd.org

For more information about Pessaries visit: www.uptodate.com and type "pessary" in the search box.