Question 1

What is pelvic organ prolapse (POP)?

Accepted Answer

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a medical condition where the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs (such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum) weaken. This causes one or more of these organs to drop or press into or out of the vagina.

Question 2

What are the common symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms include a feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area, a visible bulge of tissue at the vaginal opening, urinary problems like leakage or a frequent urge to urinate, bowel issues like constipation, and discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.

Question 3

Is surgery the only treatment for prolapse?

Accepted Answer

No, surgery is not the only option. Non-surgical treatments are often recommended for mild to moderate cases. These include pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels), lifestyle changes (like weight management and a high-fiber diet), and the use of a vaginal pessary to support the pelvic organs.

Question 4

How successful is prolapse surgery?

Accepted Answer

Prolapse surgery has a high success rate, with most women experiencing significant improvement or complete resolution of their symptoms. Long-term success also depends on post-operative care and lifestyle choices to protect the pelvic floor.

Question 5

What is the recovery time for prolapse surgery?

Accepted Answer

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery. For minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopic or robotic surgery, a full recovery to normal activities takes about 4 to 6 weeks. For more traditional vaginal surgery, the timeline is similar. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 6-8 weeks.

Question 6

Will I have a scar after prolapse surgery?

Accepted Answer

Scarring depends on the surgical approach. Vaginal surgery typically leaves no visible external scars. Laparoscopic or robotic surgery involves several small incisions on the abdomen, which result in very small, discreet scars that fade over time.

Question 7

What is a urogynecologist?

Accepted Answer

A urogynecologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of women with pelvic floor disorders. They have completed residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and then pursued additional fellowship training in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.

Question 8

Can pelvic organ prolapse come back after surgery?

Accepted Answer

There is a chance that prolapse can recur, although modern surgical techniques have lowered this risk. Factors that can contribute to recurrence include chronic straining, obesity, and genetics. Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully helps minimize this risk.

Question 9

What is a pessary and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

A pessary is a prosthetic device made of soft, flexible silicone that is inserted into the vagina to provide structural support to the pelvic organs. It helps to hold the organs in their correct position, alleviating the symptoms of prolapse without surgery.

Question 10

Is robotic prolapse surgery better than other types?

Accepted Answer

Robotic-assisted surgery offers several advantages, including enhanced 3D vision for the surgeon, greater precision, smaller incisions, less blood loss, and a potentially faster recovery. However, the best type of surgery depends on the individual patient's condition and the surgeon's expertise. Both robotic and vaginal approaches can be highly effective.

Question 11

When can I return to work after prolapse surgery?

Accepted Answer

Most women can return to a desk job within 2 to 4 weeks. If your job requires heavy lifting or is physically demanding, you may need to wait at least 6 to 8 weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific recommendations based on your job and recovery progress.

Question 12

Will I need a hysterectomy with my prolapse repair?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. If you have uterine prolapse, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended as part of the repair. However, there are also uterus-sparing procedures available, especially for women who wish to have more children. This should be discussed in detail with your surgeon.

Question 13

What are the risks associated with prolapse surgery?

Accepted Answer

As with any surgery, there are risks, including bleeding, infection, damage to nearby organs (like the bladder or bowel), and reactions to anesthesia. Specific to prolapse surgery, risks can include recurrence of the prolapse and, rarely, issues related to surgical mesh if it is used. Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks with you.

Question 14

How much pain should I expect after surgery?

Accepted Answer

Pain is typically well-managed with prescription pain medication for the first few days, followed by over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients report that the discomfort subsides significantly after the first week. Pain levels are generally lower with minimally invasive techniques.

Question 15

When can I resume exercise and sexual activity?

Accepted Answer

You should avoid all strenuous exercise, heavy lifting (>10 lbs), and sexual intercourse for at least 6 to 8 weeks after surgery to allow for proper healing. Light walking is encouraged. Your surgeon will give you clearance to resume normal activities at your post-operative follow-up appointment.

Question 16

Can I prevent pelvic organ prolapse?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot eliminate all risk factors (like genetics and aging), you can take steps to reduce your chances of developing POP. This includes performing regular pelvic floor exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and treating conditions that cause chronic coughing or constipation.

Question 17

What is the cost of prolapse surgery?

Accepted Answer

The cost varies dramatically by country and hospital. In the United States, it can range from $15,000 to over $30,000. In medical tourism destinations like Iran, the same high-quality procedure can cost between $3,000 and $6,500, including many associated fees.

Question 18

Why is medical tourism a good option for prolapse surgery?

Accepted Answer

Medical tourism offers access to world-class medical care at a significantly lower cost. Countries like Iran have internationally accredited hospitals, highly skilled surgeons, and modern technology. Companies like WMedTour facilitate the entire process, making it a safe, affordable, and stress-free option.

Question 19

How do I choose the right surgeon for prolapse repair?

Accepted Answer

Look for a board-certified urogynecologist or a gynecologist with specialized fellowship training in pelvic reconstructive surgery. Inquire about their experience, the number of prolapse surgeries they perform annually, and their familiarity with different techniques, including minimally invasive options.

Question 20

Does insurance cover prolapse surgery?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, prolapse surgery is considered a medically necessary procedure and is covered by health insurance. However, coverage levels can vary. It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand your policy's specifics regarding deductibles, co-pays, and pre-authorization requirements.

Question 21

What should I bring to the hospital for my surgery?

Accepted Answer

Bring loose, comfortable clothing to wear home, personal toiletries, your ID and insurance information, and a list of your current medications. Avoid bringing valuables. The hospital will provide gowns and basic necessities during your stay.

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