How to Check Yourself for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Concerned That You Might Have Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting your pelvic organs weaken or are damaged, causing organs to shift out of place. The organs can press in against the vaginal walls, enter the vaginal space, and shift downward until they push outside of the vagina. Organs that can prolapse include the bladder, rectum, intestines, uterus, and vagina.
If you suspect you have POP, you might be looking for ways to check for prolapse at home before seeing a doctor to confirm diagnosis. This guide will help you understand what the types of prolapse feel like and how to perform a self-examination.
The Association for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Support thanks Mary O’Dwyer, P.T. for contributing insights and tips to this article.
What Does Pelvic Organ Prolapse Feel Like?
The symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse can vary depending on which organ is affected. You might have one or more of these symptoms:
A feeling of pressure or fullness in the vagina
A bulge or lump near the vaginal opening
Tissues bulging outside the vagina
Feeling like something is “falling out” of your vagina
Urinary or fecal leakage
Difficulty emptying your bladder or bowels completely
Discomfort or pain when standing or lifting heavy objects
Pulling or aching in the lower back or pelvic area
Pain with intimacy
Chronic constipation
Difficulty keeping a tampon in
If you’re experiencing some of these symptoms, you can perform a self-exam to understand the positioning of your pelvic organs and whether you might have a prolapse.
What Does Pelvic Organ Prolapse Look Like?
When the cervix or an organ protrudes like a golf or tennis ball shape, this is a significant prolapse. When the prolapse skews more to one side, it may be the result of a levator ani tendon tear (from the pubic bone). When a vaginal wall bulges into your inserted fingers (and not out of the vagina), the prolapse is contained internally, which means it is a lower grade of severity.
Looking for more POP information?
Learn about the types and stages of pelvic organ prolapse:
How to Check for Prolapse
Understanding prolapse is the first step to finding relief and improving your pelvic health. Checking for prolapse at home can help you recognize symptoms early, get diagnosed at a lower grade of severity, and explore less invasive or aggressive treatment options. Here’s how:
Step 1: Prepare for the exam
Find a private, comfortable space with good lighting.
Use a hand mirror to help you view all angles.
Empty your bladder before beginning.
Stand with your legs spread or with one foot resting on a low stool.
Keep a notepad and pen close to note any findings.
Step 2: Look for changes
Hold a mirror to observe the vaginal opening.
Cough strongly and check for any bulging or movement. Note if a bulge balloons towards the front or back of your vagina.
Do not try to insert fingers or feel for pelvic organ prolapse, as it can worsen symptoms.
Step 3: See a Practitioner
Women may wonder if they should perform a physical self-examination for pelvic organ prolapse. APOPS encourages a visual examination rather than physical examination to reduce the risk of damaging vaginal tissues or causing infection. Leave the physical examination to a medical professional. A trained urogynecologist is your greatest resource for getting answers.
If you notice tissues bulging or pressure worsening throughout the day, consult a healthcare provider right away. Non-surgical treatments like pessaries and therapies may be able to reduce symptoms and provide relief.
When to See a Doctor
Self-exams are not a substitute for a medical evaluation. If you experience pain, difficulty with urination or bowel movements, or a visible bulge, see a healthcare provider for diagnosis as soon as you can. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent prolapse from worsening.
Learn From Women With Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Join a private community of women with POP who answer each other’s questions and share woman-to-woman support.