Can pelvic organ prolapse cause hip pain?

In previous blog posts (like this one) we have talked about the link between the pelvic floor and hip pain. The muscles in the pelvic floor have a significant effect on joints in the area, including the lower back, SI joint, and hips.

But what about pelvic organ prolapse (or POP)? Does pelvic organ prolapse cause hip pain? Let’s dive in.

First, what is pelvic organ prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse is the descent of one or more of the anterior vaginal wall (bladder or urethra), posterior vaginal wall (rectum or small intestine), the uterus, or the apex of the vagina (vaginal vault or cuff scar after hysterectomy). Some patients may also experience a rectal prolapse. You can learn more about the different types of pelvic organ prolapse and symptoms of prolapse in this post. 

How does the pelvic floor affect pelvic organ prolapse?

When defined by symptoms, evidence has shown that the prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse is around 3-6%, however when based on vaginal exam it may be up to 50%. Why is this? Because many women may have a visual prolapse on exam with bearing down, but do not experience any symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. 

How can you have a prolapse without symptoms? Because your pelvic floor muscles are functioning properly and therefore supporting your organs well. You are managing your intra-abdominal pressure, avoiding constipation, and optimizing your movement and breathing patterns. (These are all things we can work through in pelvic floor therapy!).

In contrast, those who are symptomatic with pelvic organ prolapse likely have some pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, aren’t managing intra-abdominal pressure well, may be constipated, and may not have optimal breathing or movement patterns. These same dysfunctions may cause hip pain, low back pain, and SI joint pain.

So what does this connection between pelvic floor function, pelvic organ prolapse, and hip pain mean? 

Although we don’t have significant evidence that pelvic organ prolapse directly causes hip pain, pelvic floor function and pressure management has a significant effect on both POP symptoms and hip pain. We also do have some evidence that low back pain may be connected to POP, and low back pain and hip pain are often seen clinically together due to anatomical connections. By improving pressure management, strength, and pelvic floor function, both POP symptoms and hip pain can improve.

If you are experiencing hip pain, symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, or both, pelvic floor therapy and pelvic health coaching can help! We work with women both in our office in Collierville, TN and virtually. Schedule your free 15 minute phone call here.

Blog post written by Dr. Alexis Hutchison, PT, DPT, OCS

Next on your reading list: Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy: What is Normal?