126 - Prolapse Warning: The Unspoken Role of Estrogen in Female Health, Part 2
Hormone Optimizing Warrior M.D.Show Notes
Let's continue on with our conversation about prolapse. A great number of women experience prolapse after childbirth trauma, but this can also come up many years after menopause when the loss of estrogen starts to impact a woman's pelvic floor muscles and tissues. Women on some form of hormone therapy can still experience issues with prolapse, especially since the replacement dose is nowhere near the level a woman has when she is younger. Even a relief of symptoms, like hot flashes for instance, doesn't necessarily mean that her estrogen is back to the same level it was pre-menopause. A woman's pelvic organs are held up by muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones. These muscles also play a crucial role in bodily functions related to bladder control, bowel control, sexual function, and stabilizing organs during physical activity. When this is compromised, the uterus can descend into the vaginal canal to the point where you may even be able to feel it. This is called uterine prolapse. Something similar can happen with the bladder, which is called bladder prolapse. It can lead to significant urinary incontinence and discomfort. The rectum can also prolapse into the posterior wall of the vagina. This can cause difficulty passing stool. Generally speaking, women can usually recall the event that triggered their prolapse. Before this, they have likely already experienced a gradual weakening of the pelvic floor. Childbirth greatly increases the risk for pelvic floor prolapse. Delivering a baby through the vaginal opening results in great pressure and stress on the pelvic organs and tissues. The bigger the baby's head, the greater the risk is for prolapse. Increased abdominal fat (obesity) can also weaken pelvic floor muscles. Some individuals may also have genetic disorders that impact muscle groups, including the pelvic floor.
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