Can Pelvic Floor PT Reverse Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

The short answer: yes! If you are like me and like to know the research behind the answer, keep reading below.

• A literature review in 2012 found 5 randomized controlled trials studying prolapse. They all demonstrated either a statistically significant improvement in symptoms or prolapse stage.
• A Cochrane review (high level of evidence) in 2011 found that pelvic floor muscle training was found to improve prolapse symptoms. Pelvic floor training increases the chance of improving prolapse stage (severity) by 17% compared to no treatment.
  
• ​A 2009 randomized controlled trial with women who had prolapse stage I, II or III showed that 19% improved one prolapse stage after pelvic floor muscle training, those in the pelvic floor training group elevated the bladder and rectum an average of 3 and 5.5mm respectively, and 74% reported reduced frequency and bother of symptoms.
  
• A 2010 randomized controlled trial showed that in women with anterior vaginal wall prolapse, 68% improved one stage with pelvic floor training compared to 21% in control group. The intervention group also had statistically significant improvement in symptoms including "bulge/lump in vagina" and "pelvic heaviness" and had significant improvements in ratings of quality of life.
  
• A pilot study in 2009 for stage I and II prolapse showed that women who attended pelvic floor PT were significantly more likely to have improvement in symptoms, 45% had improved prolapse stage compared to 0% in control group and 63% said their prolapse was better compared to 24% in control group.
  

If you or a close woman in your life is struggling with a feeling of pelvic heaviness, pressure, or a bulge/lump in the vagina, we would love to help you feel more like yourself! As you read above, there is a very good chance that your symptoms will improve with skilled instruction and training with a pelvic floor physical therapist. Click on the Book Now button above to fill out an appointment request, and we will be in touch shortly!