Vaginal Prolapse

[mylameoww]

I am afraid to have sugery for fear of making things worse!! I am 35 and have only had one child a year ago. Immediately after the birth, I saw the bulges but had no idea what they were. I had long pushing phase and episiotomy with 4th degree tear, so I had a lot of pain and healing to do anyway. I was diagnosed with most severely bowel prolapse, symptoms are worsening lately, bladder prolapse, leak urine all the time but only small amounts, and uterine prolapse as well. Dr reccomends surgery plus a hysterectomy I am afraid of what will fall next?? and can this be fixed?? What experience has anyone had with either surgery or with progression without surgery?? I've only had sex once in the past year, my poor husband. I feel completely changed and so depressed about it.

[mic]

Hi mylameoww! I can relate to you care and concerns. I am 44 years old and had the pelvic organ prolpase surgery done in October. Wow, what a changed person I am. No more pain, pressure, and wonderful innercourse after the recovery period.

Do you wish to have more children? Please discuss that with your doctor as I believe they can move your uterus into the correct position just like the bowels, bladder, vaginal wall etc. I had my hysterectomy in 2004 so my recent surgery consisted of putting my urethra, bladder, and vaginal wall (post and anterior) into the proper position with 3 mesh slings and TVT tape. I am so happy I chose the surgery and strongly recommend it for anyone experiencing the prolapses. I dealt with the prolapses for over a year and know how uncomfortable and embarassng it was. As my symptoms worsened my bladder protruded so far that I no longer leaked urine but wasn't emptying my bladder so I always felt full and was running to the bathroom trying to pass urine. As time went by no only did I have pain and pressure but developed unbearable backaches and groin pain. Don't get to that point because there is an answer...surgery! Search the web, become knowledgeable, write down your questions, and discuss them with your doctor. If you have any questions for me, please don't hesitate to ask! Mic

[mylameoww]

Hi Mic,

Thanks for the reply! I am so glad to hear that you had a good response to the surgery! I guess the percentage chance for success/improvemnet with surgery it good? Did your Dr give you any different options for types of surgery? I understand there are different approaches?? I think because my symptoms are not severe yet, I wonder how long I should put off the surgery, and how quicky it may progress? Did yours just quickly progress with in one years time?? How long did you know you had the prolapse/or had symptoms? I guess I have had this for one year now, with slight increases in symptoms so far. My Dr had said it would be fine to have another baby, via C section this time, if I would like. However, I am somewhat afraid of this as well, as I am sure carrying the baby would make it so much worse. I remember how heavy the baby felt on everything down there the last time, and he was only a 7.5 lb. baby! I don't know if things are really Ok down there to support the baby? Did you have this problem at all while carrying a baby? In fact now that I think about it , does it seem possible to even carry a baby if my ureus is prolapsing??? I can't remember if he said it was 1st or second degree uterine prolapse.

[ATS]

Hi Mylameoww,

I understand all your fears about surgery believe me and I share your feelings of being "changed" down there. Sex has also been off the menu for me but childbirth affected me emotionally as well as physically. I also now have prolapses and am 36 with two children but I have chosen to manage them naturally. I have been terribly depressed about everything going on down there but I have found a wonderful website full of women managing their prolapses naturally and they are such a great support system. Before you make any HUGE decisions like having a hysterectomy you might want to have a look at [moderator note: website address has been removed]

Whatever you decide to do I wish you the best of luck and know that you are not alone in this.

Take care.

[mylameoww]

Thanks so much for the response. What a great website! I actually have that book but hadn't read it yet. It's encouraging to hear others are managing with out surgery!