If you are a woman who is experiencing pelvic organ prolapse, then you can work with your physician to find a solution to the issue. And, while surgical intervention may be required at some point, conservative treatments are possible before surgery is considered. Medications can be provided, so keep reading to learn about a few of them.
Estrogen Replacement
The vast majority of women will experience organ prolapse issues after menopause. Menopause is the ultimate cause of the problem in many cases because estrogen reduces significantly when you go through this period of your life. Estrogen is responsible for keeping the female organs plump, healthy, and resistant to pressure and stress. The hormone also ensures elasticity of the tissues and this is especially important when it comes to the tendons that retain the uterus and ovaries in an elevated position.
As estrogen levels drop, the organs will often start to fall as tissues lose their elasticity, leading to prolapse. And, one common treatment modality is to plump the tissues back up to the degree that they keep the bladder, ovaries, and uterus in a healthy and natural position. This is possible with the administration of supplemental estrogen.
Estrogen can be provided in a few different forms. It may be taken orally in pill form or inserted into the vaginal canal with the help of an estrogen suppository. Keep in mind that estrogen supplementation does come with its risks. Speak with your doctor about the stroke, blood clot, and cancer risks associated with the hormone.
Urinary Retention Medications
If your prolapse issues involve the bladder, then you may have an issue with urinary retention. This is something that can be partially addressed through the use of a pessary and muscle strengthening exercises. While this is true, your bladder may still retain some urine and this can cause leakage, urgency, and infection issues. To prevent these problems, your doctor may provide you with medication for urinary retention.
There are a few classes of medications that can be prescribed and include antihistamines that work to dry out your body to eliminate excess fluids that may be causing an abundance of urine formation. Also, antispasmodic medicines may be offered that help to relax the muscles to prevent urgency issues. Medicines that are called anticholinergic can be prescribed as well.
One or several medications can be provided to you and this may require a trial and error approach, so be patient when working with your doctor to minimize urinary problems.
To learn more about pelvic organ prolapse, reach out to a local medical health professional.
Share