Preparing for an appointment

Make an appointment with your family doctor or gynecologist if you have signs or symptoms of anterior prolapse that bother you or interfere with your normal activities.

Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment and know what to expect from your doctor.

What you can do

• Write down any symptoms you've had, and for how long.
• Make note of key medical information, including other conditions for which you're being treated and the names of medications, vitamins or supplements you regularly take.
• Bring a friend or relative along, if possible. Having someone else there may help you remember important information or provide details on something that you missed during the appointment.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor, listing the most important ones first in case time runs short.

For anterior prolapse, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• Are there any other possible causes?
• Do I need any tests to confirm the diagnosis?
• What treatment approach do you recommend?
• If the first treatment doesn't work, what will you recommend next?
• Am I at risk of complications from this condition?
• What's the likelihood that the anterior prolapse will recur after treatment?
• Should I follow any activity restrictions?
• What can I do at home to ease my symptoms?
• Should I see a specialist?

Besides the questions you prepare in advance, don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment if you need clarification.

What to expect from your doctor

During your appointment, your doctor may ask a number of questions, such as:

• When did you first notice your symptoms?
• Do you have urine leakage?
• Do you have frequent bladder infections?
• Do you have pain or leak urine during intercourse?
• Do you have a chronic or severe cough?
• Do you experience constipation and straining during bowel movements?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, seems to worsen your symptoms?
• Does your mother or a sister have any pelvic floor problems?
• Have you delivered a baby vaginally? How many times?
• Do you wish to have children in the future?
• What else concerns you?