Is it safe to exercise with a prolapse?

Is it safe to exercise with a prolapse is a common question we get as Women’s Health Physical Therapists.

Exercising with a prolapse is possible, but it’s essential to do so with caution and under the guidance of a woman’s health physical therapist.

A prolapse occurs when one or more pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, descend into or protrude out of the vaginal canal.

Exercising with a prolapse can be safe if you follow these general guidelines:

1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before starting or continuing an exercise routine, consult with a woman’s health physical therapist. They can assess the severity of your prolapse and provide personalized recommendations.
2. Choose Low-Impact Activities: Low-impact exercises are generally safer for individuals with a prolapse. Activities like walking, swimming, stationary cycling, and modified yoga can be suitable choices.
3. Avoid High-Impact Exercises: High-impact activities like running, jumping, and heavy lifting can increase intra-abdominal pressure and worsen prolapse symptoms. These activities are typically best avoided.
4. Focus on Pelvic Floor-Friendly Exercises: Engage in exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.  A pelvic floor physical therapist can provide guidance on these exercises.
5. Maintain Proper Technique: Pay attention to your form during exercises to minimize straining and pressure on the pelvic floor. If you’re lifting weights, use proper techniques with lower weights and more repetitions.
6. Use Supportive Gear: Wearing supportive gear, such as a pessary or pelvic support garment, can help alleviate prolapse symptoms during exercise.
7. Monitor Your Body: Listen to your body and stop any exercise that causes discomfort, pain, or a worsening of prolapse symptoms. Rest when needed.
8. Stay Hydrated and Manage Constipation: Proper hydration and managing constipation can reduce strain on the pelvic floor.
9. Modify Exercises as Needed: Adapt exercises to your comfort level. For example, performing exercises in a reclined or seated position may be more comfortable than standing exercises.
10. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Consider working with a pelvic floor physical therapist who can provide tailored exercises and techniques to manage and improve your prolapse symptoms.

Remember that every person’s situation is unique, and the severity of a prolapse varies. What’s safe for one person may not be suitable for another. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a women’s health physical therapist who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific condition and goals. Exercise should aim to improve your overall health and well-being while protecting your pelvic health.

Treatment options for pelvic floor therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy is valuable for both men and women who experience pelvic floor issues, such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. It can significantly improve quality of life and help individuals regain control and confidence in their pelvic health.

At PhysioFit of NC, we have the expert team in pelvic floor physical therapy to help you to the fullest.

We provide a comprehensive treatment approach through our Women’s Health Program.  This includes manual therapy and exercises to improve conditions related to the pelvic floor muscles.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can help you!