KYOTO - Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition affecting a significant number of women over the age of 40, yet remains largely under-recognized. It occurs when organs in the pelvic region, such as the bladder or uterus, descend due to weakened support muscles, often as a result of childbirth or aging.
In severe cases, the condition can lead to urinary complications, including kidney damage. Despite its serious implications, awareness of pelvic organ prolapse remains low, and many women suffer without seeking medical help.
One such case is that of 60-year-old Emi Shibaya from Kyoto Prefecture. She began experiencing unusual discomfort in her lower abdomen more than two decades ago, describing the sensation as something slipping in and out when she bent over. The feeling was not only physically uncomfortable but also mentally distressing, as she feared the condition would worsen over time. It wasn’t until she consulted with a doctor that she learned the name and potential seriousness of her condition.
Pelvic organ prolapse can present with symptoms such as a heavy or foreign sensation in the pelvic area, difficulty sitting, urinary leakage, and in some cases, visible organ protrusion. Many women hesitate to talk about their symptoms due to embarrassment, and because the condition affects intimate areas, it tends to go unmentioned even among close acquaintances. Doctors warn that this silence leads to a large number of undiagnosed cases, with estimates suggesting that around 3.5 million women in Japan could be affected.
Shibaya's condition progressed to the point where her uterus and bladder had significantly descended, posing a risk to her kidneys. Unaware of the connection between prolapse and potential kidney damage, she eventually decided to undergo surgery. The procedure, performed under general anesthesia, involved partially removing her uterus and reinforcing the weakened pelvic muscles using a surgical mesh. The operation took about three hours, and she was discharged after approximately one week.
After the surgery, Shibaya expressed relief and satisfaction, noting that she no longer felt discomfort and could now engage in everyday activities without worry. While full recovery requires a few months of avoiding heavy lifting or intense exercise, patients can generally return to normal life relatively quickly.
As the condition often progresses slowly and without obvious symptoms, particularly among aging women, medical professionals emphasize the importance of early consultation and treatment. Raising awareness about pelvic organ prolapse is crucial to ensuring that more women seek help before the condition becomes severe.
Source: MBS
