Constipation Treatment with Pelvic Organ Prolapse


In the article “Chronic Constipation and Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)”, we discussed the little known but widespread issue of POP, how many suffer from it, and what the symptoms are. In this article, we will cover the common risk factors, and treatments (including specific information on constipation treatment).


What are the risk factors of POP?

  • Vaginal Childbirth - one of the most common risk factors, arising from large babies, multiple childbirths, and improperly repaired episiotomies.
  • Menopause - the pelvic floor muscle loses strength as estrogen levels drop, increasing the risk of POP as well as constipation (chronic type).
  • Constipation - treatment for constipation may be needed as constipation can be both a cause and later a symptom of POP.
  • Chronic coughing and heavy lifting - coughing can weaken the pelvic floor and heavy lifting can cause ruptures that develop into POP.
  • Abdominal surgeries - can cause weakness in the pelvic floor and scar tissue. Sometimes this is also a secondary cause of constipation.

    • Treatment for POP


    Initial Phases: Kegel Exercises & Lifestyle Changes


    Often POP does not require surgery because lifestyle changes can minimize symptoms. These changes include losing weight (obesity can lead to long-term pressure on the abdomen), avoiding lifting and other exercises that strain the pelvic floor muscles, and strengthening the pelvic floor through Kegel exercises. Constipation treatment is also often necessary (to avoid straining) and incorporation of a natural or herbal laxative can be helpful if the laxative is non-stimulant and contains prebiotic fiber.


    A 2005 study in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology showed that women with prolapse had a higher incidence of constipation compared to controls, even after controlling for fiber intake. However, women with lower fiber intake had a higher risk to develop prolapse, making fiber not just a constipation treatment, but also a preventative measure for developing POP in the first place. In other words, if you are straining less, you are less likely to develop POP in the first place.


    Secondary Phases: Vaginal Pessary and Surgery


    If lifestyle changes don’t provide relief, a removable device called a vaginal pessary can be used to help support the vaginal walls near the area of weakness. If this doesn’t work, then surgery may be necessary. Types of surgery include bladder repair, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), rectum repair, and vaginal wall repair. Surgery should be a last resort, however, because it doesn’t guarantee the successful repair of the weakened tissue that caused the problem in the first place.

    Constipation Treatment to Prevent or Treat POP

    A quality constipation remedy can be essential in dealing with POP and in preventing it. Look for constipation remedies that have soluble fiber to help move bulk through the intestines as well probiotics to relieve gas and bloating that can be intensified with POP. By treating your chronic constipation in a holistic way now, you can minimize your risk for POP as you age or minimize the damage caused by POP if you already suffer from it.