Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the muscles and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs are no longer providing enough support. This can cause organs such as the bladder, uterus, or rectumto shift lower than their normal position. Many people describe it as a feeling of heaviness, pressure, or a bulging sensation in the pelvis.

Yes. At Shift Physiotherapy & Wellness, our pelvic health physiotherapists are trained in pessary fittings as another conservative management option for pelvic organ prolapse. A pessary is a removable support device that can help reduce feelings of pressure, heaviness, and prolapse symptoms by providing additional support to the pelvic organs. Depending on your symptoms, goals, and assessment findings, your physiotherapist can help determine whether pelvic floor rehabilitation, a pessary, or a combination of both may be the best fit for you.

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but common signs include: Pelvic heaviness or pressure A feeling of bulging or fullness in the vagina Urinary leakage or urgency Difficulty emptying the bladder Constipation or bowel changes Low back or pelvic discomfort Discomfort during intimacy Symptoms that worsen after standing, exercise, or lifting If these symptoms sound familiar, pelvic organ prolapse physiotherapy in Edmonton may help.

Yes, in many cases physiotherapy can help manage symptoms and improve pelvic floor support. Pelvic floor physiotherapy focuses on improving how the muscles, breathing, pressure systems, and movement patterns work together. Treatment may help reduce heaviness, improve bladder or bowel symptoms, and help you feel more confident returning to daily activities. For many people, physiotherapy is an excellent first step before considering more invasive treatment options.

Not always. Many people with pelvic organ prolapse benefit from conservative treatment such as pelvic floor physiotherapy or a pessary. Treatment depends on symptom severity, how much prolapse is present, and how it impacts daily life. In some situations, your healthcare team may recommend additional options such as a pessary or surgery, but physiotherapy is often a helpful place to start.

Yes. Pregnancy and childbirth can place stress on the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues, which may contribute to prolapse symptoms postpartum. Feeling pressure, heaviness, or bladder changes after having a baby is something worth discussing with a pelvic health physiotherapist. The good news is that support is available.

Not necessarily. Your physiotherapist will discuss assessment options with you and explain recommendations based on your symptoms. Internal assessment is only performed with your consent and when appropriate. An internal exam can give us valuable information about what is happening in your body, including the type and stage of prolapse, how well your pelvic floor is supporting your pelvic organs, and whether you may be a good candidate for exercises, a pessary fitting, or a combination of approaches. It also gives us an opportunity to teach you more about what is happening in your body so you feel informed and confident moving forward. Your comfort matters, and you are always in control of your care. These edits strengthen the page quite a bit because they position Shift as offering multiple conservative treatment options, not just exercise-based care.

No. Pelvic organ prolapse physiotherapy is much more personalized than that. While strengthening can sometimes help, not every pelvic floor issue improves with Kegels alone. Your physiotherapist will assess what your body actually needs, which may include breathing strategies, pressure management, movement retraining, mobility work, strengthening, relaxation techniques, or pelvic floor coordination.

This depends on your symptoms, goals, and how long symptoms have been present. Some people notice improvements within a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support over time. Your physiotherapist will create a treatment plan based on your needs and progress.

Usually, yes, but modifications may help. A pelvic health physiotherapist can help you understand which exercises feel supportive for your body, how to manage pressure during movement, and how to return to activity safely and confidently. The goal is not to stop moving. The goal is to help you move in a way that feels better.

Booking is simple. Contact Shift Physiotherapy & Wellness to schedule an assessment and learn how pelvic organ prolapse physiotherapy in Edmonton can help you feel more supported, comfortable, and confident in your body.

Coverage for pessary fitting and ongoing pessary care varies depending on your insurance provider and plan. We recommend contacting your extended health benefits provider directly to confirm what services are covered. Our team can provide documentation or receipts as needed for reimbursement claims.

Most patients require an initial assessment and fitting appointment, followed by one or more follow-up visits to ensure the pessary fits comfortably and effectively manages their prolapse symptoms. The number of appointments needed will depend on your individual needs and response to treatment.

Pessary care appointments may include assessing the fit and comfort of your pessary, monitoring your symptoms, checking for any tissue irritation, and making adjustments as needed. Regular follow-up appointments help ensure your pessary continues to provide effective support for pelvic organ prolapse.