How Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Can Help with Prolapse

with our favorite Physiotherapist, Agnes Budyn

If you’ve been diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse—or suspect you might have it—you’re not alone. This condition affects many people, especially women after childbirth or during and after menopause. But it can also be common with heavy weight lifting or physically demanding jobs. While the word prolapse can sound a bit scary, the good news is that help is available. One effective and non-invasive treatment option is pelvic floor physiotherapy.

Let’s break down what prolapse is, and how pelvic physiotherapy can make a difference.

What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when one or more of the pelvic organs (like the bladder, uterus, or rectum) drop from their usual position and press against the walls of the vagina. This is usually caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles and ligaments.

Common symptoms include:

• A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area

• A bulge or feeling like something is “falling out”

• Discomfort during intercourse

• Leaking urine or trouble with bowel movements

• 
  

These symptoms can range from mild to more bothersome—but either way, you don’t have to just live with them.

What Is Pelvic Physiotherapy?

Pelvic physiotherapy is a specialized form of physical therapy focused on the muscles, ligaments, and tissues in the pelvic area. Pelvic health physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat a variety of issues, including prolapse.

How Can It Help with Prolapse?

Pelvic physiotherapy offers several benefits for people with prolapse:

1. Strengthening the Pelvic Floor Muscles

The core of treatment is learning how to properly activate and strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. These are the muscles that support your pelvic organs. A strong pelvic floor can reduce symptoms and help stop the prolapse from getting worse.

2. Improving Bladder and Bowel Function

If you’re experiencing leaking, urgency, or constipation, pelvic physios can teach you techniques and exercises to help retrain your bladder and bowel habits—improving your quality of life.

3. Better Posture and Movement

Sometimes how we stand, sit, or lift can put extra pressure on the pelvic organs. A pelvic physio can guide you in making small adjustments that reduce strain and help your body support itself more effectively.

4. Personalized Exercise Plan

Not all exercises are created equal—some can even make prolapse worse. Your physiotherapist will help design a safe and effective exercise program tailored to your condition, lifestyle, and goals.

5. Guidance on Pessaries and Daily Activities

Pelvic physios often work alongside other health professionals to provide support with devices like pessaries (which help hold organs in place), and they can offer advice on everyday activities—like lifting children or exercising—so you can stay active safely.

When Should You See a Pelvic Physiotherapist?

If you:

• Have symptoms of prolapse (heaviness and pressure in the pelvic floor)

• Want to prevent prolapse after childbirth or menopause

• Have had pelvic surgery and want to support your recovery

...then pelvic physiotherapy is a great place to start.

Final Thoughts

Pelvic organ prolapse is common, but it doesn’t have hold you back from doing the activities that you want to do. Pelvic physiotherapy offers a gentle, evidence-based, and empowering way to manage your symptoms, feel more in control of your body, and get back to doing the things you love.

If you're experiencing symptoms or just want to learn more, book a free 15 minute consultation to determine if pelvic floor physiotherapy is right for you. 

Agnes Budyn, PT