What is pelvic organ prolapse?
Prolapse happens when one or more pelvic organs (the bladder, uterus, or rectum), loses its ligament support and drops into the vaginal canal. It is caused by genetics, childbirth, ageing, or pelvic surgery, and can be worsened gradually by things like a chronic cough or long-term constipation.
Pelvic organ prolapse affects millions of women and with the right support, you can stay active, strong and feel like yourself again.
It is more common than you might expect...
1 in 2
women over 50 experience some degree of prolapse
90%
of symptoms can be improved with physio
~1 hr
is all it takes for your first specialist appointment
It is common. It is not your fault. And it is very treatable.
Exercise does not make prolapse worse
In fact, we actively encourage it. With the right guidance, staying strong and active is one of the most powerful things you can do for your pelvic floor and your symptoms.
Recognising the signs
Prolapse can show up in many ways. You might notice one or several of the following:
SENSATION - Heaviness, a bulge in the vagina, or the feeling of 'something falling out'
BLADDER - Leakage, urgency, weak stream, incomplete emptying, night-time waking
BOWEL - Difficulty emptying, urgency, incomplete bowel movements
OTHER - Lower back ache, pelvic heaviness after activity, discomfort during sex
If any of these sound familiar - please don't wait. Early support makes a real difference.
How Women's Health Physios can help
Our specialist physiotherapists take a whole-body approach - looking at how you breathe, move, lift, and carry. Your appointment (around 1–1.5 hours) includes:
1. Movement & alignment assessment - walking, lifting, posture
2. Breathing & core assessment - how your diaphragm and pelvic floor work together
3. Internal pelvic floor examination - assessing strength, coordination and timing
4. Prolapse measurement - a baseline to track your progress
5. Personalised treatment plan - exercises, lifestyle changes, and if appropriate, pessary fitting
Follow-up appointments are typically at 2 weeks, then 3, 6 and 12 months to adjust and progress your programme.
What is a pessary and could it help you?
Think of a pessary as a sports bra for your vaginal walls. It is a small medical-grade silicone device, fitted internally, that provides structural support for your pelvic organs. Some women wear one all the time, others use one only during sport or exercise.
Pessaries come in many shapes and sizes
It may take a couple of visits to find the right fit, and that is completely normal. If a pessary isn't right for you, there are other effective management options we can explore together.
Pessaries work alongside, not instead of pelvic floor strengthening. A strong pelvic floor is still essential, as it helps keep the pessary comfortably in place.
Your first appointment with us will be a full assessment and treatment plan, and if the examination shows you may benefit from a pessary as well, we will refer you for a fitting with our specialist.
Common questions about pessaries
Can I exercise with a pessary?
Yes, this is often exactly why they are fitted. Your physiotherapist may ask you to walk, jog or perform sport-specific movements during the fitting appointment to check comfort and position.
Can I have sex with a pessary in?
With a ring pessary this is possible, though most people prefer to remove it beforehand.
What about during my period?
Pessaries can be worn during a period, though many women prefer not to. If using a suction-type pessary, it should be removed daily during your period.
How do I clean it?
Rinse with warm water and leave to air dry. Sterilise monthly by boiling in water for 3–5 minutes. Avoid drying with a towel as fibres can cause irritation.
Are there any side effects?
Most side effects are low risk. Contact the clinic if you notice increased or odorous discharge, vaginal irritation, or discomfort. Remove the pessary immediately if there is difficulty urinating or passing a bowel movement.
Ready to feel better?
You don't have to manage this alone. Our specialist team is here to help you stay active, regain confidence and feel strong in your body.
Book a consultation today - call us or visit our website.
( PS Bring your trainers - we may test you in movement relevant to your sport or activity.)
Our Barnes Clinic
Our clinic is located in Barnes, South-West London and is easily accessible by public transport.
For more information including parking and other practicalities see our Barnes clinic page
Book an Appointment
Booking an appointment with one of our therapists is quick and easy. There is no long waiting time and you don’t need a referral from your GP.
