What are Prolapse Support Garments and Do I Need One?
What exactly are prolapse support garments and why do I need one? If you have pelvic organ prolapse, wearing a supportive garment can reduce your symptoms and allow you to be more active. There are a lot of options when it comes to prolapse support garments. We know it can be overwhelming to sift through them to find the one that works best for you! They come in all different shapes, sizes, and materials. Because there are so many options, we've decided to help out and give you our top picks! This article breaks down our top six prolapse support garments, so you can make an informed decision about which will be the best fit for you!
What Are They?
Prolapse support garments are devices that can aid in reducing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) symptoms such as low back pain, pelvic pressure, pelvic pain, pelvic vein varicosities, and incontinence. The garments provide external support to the groin which keeps the organs in their ideal position. It also decreases the amount of work required by the pelvic floor muscles. The muscles can then rest (while still supporting the prolapse). This can be beneficial in certain situations, such as early postpartum, long-term prolapse issues, and people who are very active during the day.
Why Would I Need Them?
If you notice prolapse symptoms or have been diagnosed with prolapse, but can't modify your daily activities and movement patterns-these garments are for you. For the most part, the combination of Pelvic Floor PT, your home program, and activity modifications will be sufficient to manage and improve symptoms. If you struggle with taking rest breaks or limiting activity based off your prolapse symptoms, then prolapse support garments would be an appropriate step to take in your recovery journey.
What Are My Options?
We've broken down the features of our top 6 support garments so you can choose the best fit for you! If you have any questions or concerns if these are right for you, talk with one of our Pelvic Health Specialists to find out more!
Device Name
Image
Details
Cost & Website
Pelvic Pro Belt by Brace Ability
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Fits well under clothing
Adjustable straps for a better fit
Easy to step into and take off
Cost: $64.99
Mama Strut: Postpartum Support Brace
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Easy to step into and take off
Made of nylon, spandex, and polyester for comfortable compression
Three adjustable straps to get the most vaginal support
Can add support at the SI, low back, and hips
Has insert for perineal ice pack
Cost: $129.99
Baby belly band with compression garments (sold separately)
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General compression for support at belly, pelvic floor, and SI joint is great for during pregnancy
Can purchase additional belly support bands if needed
Can be worn under clothing
Cost: Band: $49.95
V Brace by Fembrace
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Pressure and support that stays in place and doesn't chafe
Simple design that resembles underwear
Cost: $78.99
Lauftex
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Machine washable
Less adjustability than other options
Can be used for additional support post-c-section
Comes in 5 sizes, tends to run small
Cost : $49.99
Femi cushion
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Very customizable to your needs
Allows for support inside the vaginal canal
Optional high waist support
Optional insert for liners to protect from incontinence
Sizing determined based off of waist measurement
Cost: $249.99 (kit-includes cushions, holders, cleaning plug)
Should I Get A Prolapse Support Garment?
Prolapse support garments can be beneficial in certain situations. The reason we don't recommend these for everyone is because it can build reliance on external support and it can have unintended consequences. In some situations, if the garment is not fitted correctly it can cause excessive pressure on the abdomen. This ultimately leads to extra pressure downwards on the pelvic floor muscles. This can then have the opposite of its intended effect. It is important to consult a pelvic floor physical therapist if you are uncertain of whether or not you could benefit from one.
We Are Here To Help!
If you have any questions or concerns on whether prolapse support garments are right for you, please do not hesitate to reach out to us here at Revitalize! We treat women everyday who are dealing with pelvic organ prolapse. We are here to help!