Urogynecologist Dr. Linh Do Discusses Pelvic Organ Prolapse
When women feel something bulging out of their vagina, they may be anxious, concerned, embarrassed or ashamed, and they may not see a physician until the symptoms become unbearable. They may also feel discomfort, pressure, urinary issues or bowel symptoms. The problem could be pelvic organ prolapse, or POP. Linh Do MD is a specially trained member of our team of Houston urologists who has the skill and training to diagnose and treat POP.
What patients should know about pelvic organ prolapse
Dr. Linh Do wants women to know that many menopausal women experience POP. The condition occurs when the layers of muscles and connective tissue that support the pelvic floor get weak and don’t support the pelvic organs properly. When weakness occurs, the pelvic organs, which include the vagina, uterus, urethra, bladder and rectum, drop, or prolapse, and can cause pressure or bulging out of the vagina. Muscles and tissues weaken for several reasons.
- Pregnancy
- Vaginal childbirth
- Aging
- Menopause
- Being overweight or obese
- Constipation that causes straining
- Chronic cough due to asthma, smoking or other conditions
- Heavy lifting
Urogynecologist Dr. Linh Do helps women with POP improve their quality of life
When women develop POP, they may notice urinary symptoms, such as urine leaking, difficulties fully emptying the bladder, or issues with bowel movements. They may experience pain in the lower back or have difficulty inserting tampons or vaginal applicators. Every woman is different, and that is something that Dr. Do keeps in mind when diagnosing and treating POP.
“Pelvic organ prolapse is so dynamic,” she says. “You can see the minimal amount of prolapse, but it may bother the patient so much that something has to be done about it right away. On the other hand, some patients have a good deal of prolapse, and they may not notice any problems or pain. The amount of prolapse you see on a physical exam may not capture how the patient feels. I tailor everything to the patient’s goals and symptoms. We focus on a woman’s quality of life. My treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s individual needs.”
Our Houston urologists welcome Dr. Do and her urogynecology expertise to our group
Urogynecologist Dr. Linh Do wants patients to know that there are treatments available, and they don’t have to live with the feeling or sensation of pelvic organ prolapse.
“There are surgical and non-surgical treatments,” Dr. Do notes. “We offer pessaries in different shapes and sizes, fitted to the patient, and I perform several minimally invasive procedures – vaginally, laparoscopically and robotically – that can help improve a patient’s quality of life dramatically.”
Our Houston urologists welcome Dr. Do, and invite patients to click here to contact us to schedule an appointment with her or call 218-493-9966.
