Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs (uterus, bladder, rectum) fall downward into the vagina from weak connective tissue and muscles. It is a common problem that may or may not be show symptoms. Some may have a feeling of fullness in the vagina, be able to touch a bulge of tissue at the vaginal opening, have dryness or irritation from the tissue rubbing on their clothing, or have to push the tissue up in order to have a bowel movement or empty their bladder completely. The diagnosis is made on a pelvic exam. “In its most severe form, pelvic floor disorders can involve incontinence or loss of control of urine, the bowels, or both,” says John Reilly, MD, a UPMC colorectal surgeon at Colon & Rectal Surgeons of Erie.