A conversation with Dr. Jason Hurt, Parkhill Clinic for Women

What is the most common age-related health issue for women 50+ that you see in your practice? And what are the solutions and treatments for this issue?

In my practice the most common condition that I see and treat is Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Pelvic prolapse is a condition that occurs when muscles and ligaments that support your pelvic organs weaken. As a result, these organs (uterus, vagina, cervix, bladder, urethra, or rectum) slip from their normal position.

Severe uterine prolapse can cause the uterus to slip (prolapse) partially into the vagina. It may cause the upper part of the vagina to sag into the vaginal canal or even outside the vagina. Some women with prolapse have no symptoms. Others may experience: a feeling of sitting on a ball, pulling in the pelvis, pelvic or abdominal pain, painful intercourse, bladder infections, vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge, constipation or frequent urination. Pelvic prolapse is common, affecting about one in every three women who have had a child. Risk factors for prolapse include multiple vaginal deliveries, age, obesity, hysterectomy and smoking. One in nine women have symptoms that are severe enough to need surgery.

Surgical treatment for this condition is called sacrocolpopexy. It is viewed as the best way to correct pelvic prolapse and resolve symptoms. During the operation, surgical mesh is used to hold your affected pelvic organ(s) in their natural position. The mesh remains in place permanently. This procedure is not the same as what occurs during transvaginal placement of mesh. The surgery may also be done following a hysterectomy to provide long-term support for the vagina. A minimally invasive surgical option is available, requiring just a few small incisions. Talk to your doctor about the process and options.