Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Myths and Facts with Dr. Carolyn Best

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In this engaging episode of The Hole Shebang, Kristen Parise welcomes Dr. Carolyn Best, a seasoned urogynecologist, for an in-depth discussion about pelvic organ prolapse (POP), surgical options, and the misconceptions surrounding these conditions. Dr. Best shares her journey into urogynecology and her passion for impactful, tangible results in women's health. Her experience ranges from Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto to her current position at Halton Healthcare, where she continues to perform surgeries and educate others in the field.

 

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Best emphasizes the importance of understanding the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, such as a feeling of pressure or bulging in the vagina, which can significantly impact a person's quality of life. The discussion highlights that while these symptoms are common, they often remain misunderstood, leading to unnecessary distress among those affected.

 

Dr. Best provides clarity on the causes of prolapse, pointing to pregnancy, gravity, chronic constipation, and heavy lifting as potential contributors. While hormones play a role, the exact mechanism remains under study, with changes in estrogen levels affecting tissue integrity and muscle tone more than directly causing prolapse.

 

Listeners will gain insight into how Dr. Best approaches treatment, considering surgery only when prolapse significantly affects a patient's life and when non-surgical options prove insufficient. She explains the nuances of grading prolapse, focusing on quality of life rather than numerical severity. This approach ensures that treatment is highly personalized, acknowledging the diversity of patient experiences.

 

Prolapse surgeries, as Dr. Best describes, are typically done through the vagina, minimizing recovery time and the need for invasive procedures. She elaborates on the steps involved in these surgeries, including vaginal hysterectomy and repairing the vaginal walls, while emphasizing non-surgical measures like pelvic floor exercises and pessaries when appropriate.

 

Dr. Best addresses common concerns about the longevity of surgical outcomes, explaining that while prolapse can recur, each case is unique. She reassures listeners that treatment options remain open, even if prolapse returns, providing a balanced perspective on surgical success rates.

 

The episode concludes with Dr. Best's theme song choice, "Get Up, Stand Up" by Bob Marley and the Whalers, reflecting her advocacy for women's health and the continuous fight for improved awareness and care.

 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in women's health, providing expert insights and practical advice on managing pelvic organ prolapse with warmth, humor, and a wealth of experience.