Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Cystocele, Rectocele, and Uterine Prolapse

Guest Post by Sinead O’Donovan, MD of SRC Health

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken, causing one or more organs to shift from their normal position and bulge into the vaginal canal. This can lead to discomfort, pressure, and functional issues.

Many women suffer from different types of prolapse, including:

• Bladder prolapse (cystocele or front wall prolapse) – when the bladder pushes into the vaginal wall anteriorly.
• Rectal prolapse (rectocele or back wall prolapse) – when the rectum bulges into the vaginal wall posteriorly.
• Uterine prolapse – when the uterus descends into the vaginal canal

Pelvic organ prolapse is common and can significantly impact daily activities, but effective treatments, including SRC Health Restore Compression garments, provide much-needed relief.

What is a Cystocele (Front Wall Prolapse)?

Bladder prolapse, or cystocele, occurs when the front vaginal wall weakens, allowing the bladder to descend into the vaginal canal.

Symptoms of Cystocele:

• A sensation of fullness or pressure in the pelvis
• Feeling like you're sitting on an egg
• The sensation of organs slipping out
• Urinary issues such as a constant urge to urinate or difficulty emptying the bladder completely
• Stress urinary incontinence (leaking urine when sneezing, coughing, or exercising)
• Frequent bladder infections
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse

If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor or a pelvic health physiotherapist.

What Causes Bladder Prolapse?

The most common causes include:

• Childbirth – especially vaginal deliveries that stretch or tear the pelvic floor muscles
• Menopause – declining estrogen levels weaken the vaginal and pelvic muscles
• Chronic straining – from constipation, heavy lifting, or persistent coughing
• Aging and genetics – connective tissue disorders can increase risk

Diagnosis usually involves a pelvic exam, and sometimes imaging tests like x-rays or cystoscopy.

Treatment Options for Cystocele:

• Pelvic floor exercises like Kegels can help strengthen muscles.
• Pessary support (a silicone or rubber device inserted into the vagina) helps hold the bladder in place.
• Estrogen replacement therapy may improve muscle tone.
• SRC Restore Compression Garments provide targeted support and symptom relief.
• Surgery is an option for severe cases.

What is a Rectocele (Back Wall Prolapse)?

A rectocele occurs when the tissue separating the rectum from the vagina weakens, causing the rectum to bulge into the vaginal canal.

Symptoms of Rectocele:

• A bulging sensation in the vagina
• Difficulty with bowel movements or the need to manually support the vaginal wall to defecate
• A feeling of pressure or fullness in the lower pelvis
• Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse

What Causes a Rectocele?

• Childbirth injuries – vaginal deliveries can stretch or tear pelvic muscles.
• Chronic constipation – frequent straining weakens the vaginal wall.
• Menopause – estrogen loss leads to weaker tissue support.
• Heavy lifting or persistent coughing – increases pressure on the pelvic floor.

Treatment Options for Rectocele:

• Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen vaginal support.
• Dietary changes to prevent constipation and reduce straining.
• Pessary use to provide structural support.
• SRC Restore Compression Garments – while our research did not specifically include rectocele cases, anecdotal evidence suggests they provide significant relief for women with rectocele.
• Surgery is considered for severe cases.

What is a Uterine Prolapse?

Uterine prolapse occurs when weakened pelvic muscles and ligaments allow the uterus to descend into the vaginal canal.

Symptoms of Uterine Prolapse:

• A pulling or dragging sensation in the pelvis
• A visible or palpable bulge at the vaginal opening
• Urinary incontinence or frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse

What Causes Uterine Prolapse?

• Multiple pregnancies and vaginal deliveries
• Difficult or prolonged labor
• Chronic constipation and straining
• Obesity, chronic coughing, and aging
• Weak connective tissue (genetic predisposition)

Treatment Options for Uterine Prolapse:

• Pelvic floor exercises
• Pessaries to support the uterus
• Estrogen replacement therapy to strengthen vaginal tissues
• SRC Restore Compression Garments for continuous support and symptom relief
• Surgery for severe cases

Preventative measures include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and practicing pelvic floor exercises.

Testimonial: Real-Life Relief with SRC Restore

*"My pelvic floor PT had suggested I purchase this product for some time, but I didn't think it would work to make me more comfortable with my multiple prolapses. The product name describes it for uterine prolapse and incontinence help. I had a hysterectomy and BSO, so I don't have a uterus, and incontinence is the one issue I do not have so far—although I do have a cystocele and a rectocele. The vaginal vault prolapses bother me the most, and I have not been able to successfully wear a pessary.

I can manage without a pessary, but I get uncomfortable when I go on long walks, clean the house, or have semi-strenuous days. I have been so amazed at how much the Restore Support Garment has helped when doing these activities! I don’t understand how it is working, but I am happy to say that in the few weeks I have been wearing it for specific activities, I am definitely feeling fewer issues. I am in the US, and shipping and delivery were very prompt and reliable."*

Conclusion: Effective Solutions for Prolapse Management

Both cystocele (front wall prolapse) and rectocele (back wall prolapse) are common conditions that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. While uterine prolapse is more widely recognized, rectoceles are just as prevalent and can cause significant discomfort.

Although SRC Restore Compression Garments were originally designed for bladder and uterine prolapse, many users with rectocele report significant symptom relief.

You don’t have to live with discomfort! See your doctor or pelvic health physiotherapist for treatment options and consider SRC Restore garments to support your recovery.

Start living, laughing, and moving without discomfort!

Sinead O'Donovan

CEO / Women's Health Advocate

While recovering in hospital after the birth of my first child, I found myself wondering why there wasn’t a product that could truly support postpartum recovery—something that would help me move more comfortably, lift, feed, and care for my baby with greater ease. I needed support for common postnatal concerns like abdominal separation, perineal trauma, and caesarean section wounds—but there was nothing available at the time.

That moment sparked the idea for SRC Health. Working alongside a leading Melbourne obstetrician, we developed the SRC Recovery Garment. Ten years on, our range has grown to become the world’s largest collection of medical-grade maternity compression garments—supporting women through pregnancy, postnatal recovery, and post-surgery.

Pregnancy and the postnatal period are among the most physically and emotionally demanding times in a woman’s life. I’m incredibly proud of our team’s dedication to helping women feel stronger, supported, and more comfortable through every stage. We're also passionate about mental health, partnering with organisations like PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia) and collaborating with everyday mums and healthcare professionals to raise awareness and improve care.