Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a condition that affects many women worldwide. When a woman is diagnosed with POP, she may experience a range of emotions, including shock, disbelief, sadness, and anger. She may also experience embarrassment or shame, as POP can affect sexual function and cause urinary or faecal incontinence. It’s important for women to know that these emotional responses are normal and valid.
One of the main emotional responses to a POP diagnosis is a lack of knowledge. Patients may feel confused about their treatment options and uncertain about their future. Healthcare providers can help patients cope with this emotional response by providing them with as much information as possible about POP and its treatment options. This can help women feel more in control and empowered to make decisions about their care.
Another emotional response to a POP diagnosis is embarrassment and shame. Women may feel embarrassed to have sexual intercourse with their partner due to fear that their partner will be able to see or feel their prolapse. They may also feel guilty that they cannot lose weight, as being overweight is a contributing factor to POP. Women with POP should be encouraged to seek support from their healthcare providers, loved ones, and other resources.
It’s important for women with POP to prioritize self-care and self-compassion. This may include taking time to rest and recharge, engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment, and seeking out mental health support if needed. Women with POP may also benefit from working with a Pelvic Health Physio or other healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of pelvic floor disorders such as a Urogynecologist and Continence Nurse Adviser.
Patient-centred care is crucial when treating the POP population. A qualitative study completed by Abhyankar and colleagues (2019) identified that POP treatment options should include more conservative choices, greater awareness, and education. As clinicians, we must balance disclosing important information about POP and managing our patients’ emotional health. An individual and gradual approach can be useful to optimize their healthcare experience.
Women with POP may also benefit from seeking support from others who have gone through similar experiences. Support groups, online forums, and other resources can provide women with a sense of community and help them feel less isolated. It’s important for women with POP to know that their emotional responses are valid, and that support is available.
Managing the emotional response to POP diagnosis can be challenging, and it requires a multi-faceted approach. Pelvic Health Physios, are in a unique position to address patients through a biopsychosocial approach. This approach can include evidence-based management, motivational interviewing to establish goals, and include engaging in mental health care support.
In conclusion, a diagnosis of Pelvic Organ Prolapse can be emotionally challenging for women, but it’s important for them to know that their emotional responses are valid and that support is available. Women with POP can navigate this condition with resilience and strength by seeking out resources and support, learning about treatment options, and prioritizing self-care. It’s important for healthcare providers to provide patients with as much information as possible about POP and its treatment options and to approach each patient with empathy, understanding, and individualized care. Empowering women to best manage the emotional impact of Pelvic Organ Prolapse diagnosis and lead fulfilling healthy lives.
Reference:
Abhyankar P, Uny I, Semple K, Wane S, Hagen S, Wilkinson J, Guerrero K, Tincello D, Duncan E, Calveley E, Elders A, McClurg D, Maxwell M. Women’s experiences of receiving care for pelvic organ prolapse: a qualitative study. BMC Womens Health. 2019 Mar 15;19(1):45. doi: 10.1186/s12905-019-0741-2. PMID: 30876415; PMCID: PMC6419797.
