How to Cope with Enterocele Body Changes

July 28, 2025 by admin

Navigating the landscape of an enterocele diagnosis brings with it a unique set of challenges, particularly concerning the physical and emotional adjustments to body changes. This isn’t just about a medical condition; it’s about reclaiming comfort, confidence, and control in your own skin. Understanding how to cope with these body changes isn’t a singular event but an ongoing journey of education, adaptation, and self-compassion. This comprehensive guide will illuminate the path forward, offering practical strategies and profound insights to empower you on your journey to wellness.

Understanding Enterocele: More Than Just a Prolapse

Before delving into coping mechanisms, a foundational understanding of enterocele itself is crucial. An enterocele, often referred to as a small bowel prolapse, occurs when the small intestine (small bowel) descends and pushes against the top of the vagina, creating a bulge. This can happen after childbirth, hysterectomy, or due to chronic straining. While it’s a form of pelvic organ prolapse, its specific location and potential symptoms, such as pelvic pressure, a feeling of fullness, discomfort during intercourse, or even difficulty with bowel movements, necessitate a tailored approach to management and coping. The visible or palpable bulge, the internal sensation, and the associated symptoms are the primary “body changes” that individuals experience, and addressing these on multiple fronts is key to effective coping.

The Emotional Landscape: Acknowledging the Invisible Burden

The most profound body changes associated with enterocele are not always visible. The emotional toll can be significant, ranging from frustration and embarrassment to anxiety and depression. Ignoring these feelings is akin to patching a leaky roof while the foundation crumbles. Acknowledging and validating these emotions is the first, crucial step toward effective coping.

Confronting Feelings of Embarrassment and Shame

Many individuals experiencing enterocele report feelings of embarrassment or shame, particularly concerning changes in their vaginal anatomy or the impact on intimacy. This is a natural human response to a condition that affects a very private part of the body.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Normalize the Experience: Understand that pelvic organ prolapse, including enterocele, is a common condition. It’s not a reflection of your character or a sign of personal failure. Millions of women worldwide experience some form of prolapse.
Example: Instead of thinking, “My body is failing me,” reframe it to, “My body has undergone changes, and I am actively learning how to support it.” Connect with online forums or support groups (being mindful of reputable sources) where others share similar experiences to realize you are not alone.
Open Communication with Partners: If you have an intimate partner, open and honest communication about your feelings and physical sensations can alleviate a significant burden. Their understanding and support can be invaluable.
Example: You might say to your partner, “I’ve been feeling a bit self-conscious about some changes in my body due to the enterocele. It sometimes affects my comfort during intimacy, and I wanted to talk about it openly so we can find ways to navigate this together.”

Managing Anxiety and Stress Related to Symptoms

The unpredictable nature of enterocele symptoms, such as pelvic pressure or discomfort during daily activities, can lead to heightened anxiety and stress. The fear of symptoms worsening or appearing at inconvenient times can be debilitating.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Symptom Journaling: Keep a detailed journal of your symptoms, noting triggers, severity, and what activities seem to aggravate or alleviate them. This provides valuable data for both you and your healthcare provider and can help you identify patterns, reducing the feeling of unpredictability.
Example: You might notice that prolonged standing consistently increases your pelvic pressure. This insight allows you to consciously incorporate short sitting breaks or modify your work environment, reducing anticipatory anxiety.
Mindfulness and Deep Breathing: Incorporate mindfulness practices and deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. These techniques can help calm the nervous system and reduce the physiological responses to stress.
Example: When you feel a surge of anxiety about a symptom, pause, close your eyes, and take 5-10 slow, deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body. This simple act can significantly lower your heart rate and promote a sense of calm.

Addressing Feelings of Loss and Grief

For some, enterocele can represent a loss – a loss of the body they once knew, a loss of certain activities, or a perceived loss of femininity. Grieving these changes is a valid and necessary part of the coping process.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Acknowledge and Validate: Allow yourself to feel the sadness, anger, or frustration. Suppressing these emotions can prolong the grieving process.
Example: Instead of dismissing feelings with “It’s just a prolapse, I should be fine,” acknowledge, “I feel sad that my body feels different now, and that’s okay.”
Focus on Adaptation, Not Just Loss: Shift your perspective from what you’ve lost to what you can adapt to or gain. This might involve discovering new activities that are gentle on your pelvic floor or finding alternative ways to enjoy previously challenging activities.
Example: If high-impact exercise is no longer comfortable, explore swimming, cycling, yoga, or Pilates, which are often pelvic-floor friendly and can provide immense physical and mental benefits.

Physical Adaptations: Reclaiming Comfort and Function

The most direct way to cope with enterocele body changes involves strategic physical adaptations. These strategies aim to minimize symptoms, support the pelvic floor, and improve overall comfort and function in daily life.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: The Cornerstone of Conservative Management

Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) is not merely a recommendation; it’s a vital component of managing enterocele and adapting to its physical changes. A specialized pelvic floor physical therapist can provide individualized exercises and strategies to strengthen and coordinate the pelvic floor muscles, which play a crucial role in supporting pelvic organs.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Personalized Exercise Programs: A PFPT will assess your specific needs and design exercises that go beyond generic Kegels. These might include exercises for pelvic floor relaxation, strengthening, coordination, and even breathing techniques.
Example: Instead of just “squeezing,” your therapist might guide you through exercises that focus on lifting and holding the pelvic floor, followed by complete relaxation, ensuring proper muscle function. They might also teach you how to engage your transverse abdominis (deep core muscle) to support your pelvic floor.
Body Mechanics and Posture Training: Your therapist will teach you optimal body mechanics for daily activities like lifting, bending, and even coughing or sneezing, to minimize downward pressure on your pelvic floor.
Example: When lifting a heavy object, instead of bending at your waist, your therapist will instruct you to squat down, engaging your leg muscles, and exhale as you lift, drawing your pelvic floor and deep core up and in.
Biofeedback and Manual Therapy: These techniques can help you better understand and control your pelvic floor muscles. Manual therapy can address muscle tension or trigger points.
Example: Biofeedback might involve sensors that show you on a screen when your pelvic floor muscles are contracting or relaxing, helping you to isolate and effectively engage the correct muscles.

Lifestyle Modifications: Gentle Adjustments for Big Impact

Small, consistent lifestyle modifications can significantly alleviate enterocele symptoms and help you cope with the associated body changes. These adjustments focus on reducing intra-abdominal pressure and promoting bowel health.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Bowel Regularity and Strain Prevention: Chronic straining during bowel movements is a major contributor to pelvic floor dysfunction and prolapse. Prioritize soft, regular stools.
Example: Increase your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and ensure adequate hydration (aim for 8 glasses of water daily). Consider a squatty potty or footstool to optimize your pooping posture, allowing for easier elimination without straining.
Weight Management: If you are overweight or obese, even a modest weight loss can significantly reduce intra-abdominal pressure and alleviate enterocele symptoms.
Example: Instead of drastic diets, focus on sustainable changes like incorporating more plant-based meals, reducing processed foods, and increasing physical activity. Aim for a slow, steady weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week.
Activity Modification: While exercise is crucial, certain high-impact or heavy-lifting activities can worsen enterocele symptoms. Modify your exercise routine to be pelvic-floor friendly.
Example: If you love running, consider switching to walking, swimming, or cycling, or explore low-impact cardio machines. If you lift weights, reduce the amount of weight and focus on proper form, exhaling on exertion, and engaging your core and pelvic floor.
Smoking Cessation: Chronic coughing associated with smoking significantly increases intra-abdominal pressure, exacerbating prolapse. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful changes you can make.
Example: Seek support from your doctor, nicotine replacement therapy, or support groups to successfully quit smoking.

Pessaries: A Supportive Device

For many, a pessary can be an incredibly effective tool for managing enterocele symptoms and coping with the internal “bulge” sensation. A pessary is a removable device inserted into the vagina to provide support to the pelvic organs.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Types and Fitting: Pessaries come in various shapes and sizes (e.g., ring, cube, donut). A healthcare provider will fit you for the correct type and size, ensuring comfort and effectiveness.
Example: Your gynecologist might try a ring pessary first. If that doesn’t provide sufficient support, they might explore a cube pessary, which offers more suction. The fitting process involves trying different sizes until you find one that alleviates symptoms without causing discomfort.
Relief of Symptoms: A well-fitted pessary can provide immediate relief from feelings of heaviness, pressure, and the sensation of something “falling out.” It can also improve comfort during physical activity.
Example: Wearing a pessary might allow you to walk further, exercise with less discomfort, or even feel more confident during sexual activity, significantly improving your quality of life and sense of normalcy.
Care and Maintenance: You will be instructed on how to insert, remove, and clean your pessary. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to ensure proper fit and address any potential complications.
Example: Your doctor will typically recommend removing and cleaning the pessary daily or weekly, depending on the type and your comfort level, using mild soap and water.

Intimacy and Relationships: Rebuilding Connection and Confidence

Enterocele can significantly impact intimacy and relationships, both physically and emotionally. Addressing these challenges openly and proactively is vital for maintaining connection and self-esteem.

Open and Honest Communication with Your Partner

This cannot be overstated. Secrecy and assumptions breed misunderstanding and distance. Open communication is the foundation for navigating intimacy challenges.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Express Your Feelings and Concerns: Share your physical sensations, emotional discomfort, and any fears you have about intimacy.
Example: You might say, “I’ve been feeling some discomfort during intercourse lately, and it’s related to my enterocele. I’m feeling a bit self-conscious about it, and I wanted to talk about ways we can still be intimate in a comfortable way.”
Listen to Their Perspective: Your partner may also have concerns or misunderstandings. Create a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings.
Example: After sharing your feelings, ask, “How are you feeling about this? Is there anything you’re worried about or any questions you have?”

Exploring Alternative Forms of Intimacy

Intimacy extends far beyond penetrative intercourse. Expanding your definition of intimacy can enrich your relationship and reduce pressure related to the enterocele.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Focus on Non-Penetrative Intimacy: Explore activities like massage, cuddling, deep conversations, shared hobbies, or sensate focus exercises (where the focus is on touch and sensation, not intercourse).
Example: Instead of immediately aiming for intercourse, suggest a relaxing evening of mutual back massages, or simply spend time holding hands and talking deeply about your day, rediscovering the comfort of physical closeness without pressure.
Position Changes During Intercourse: If penetrative intercourse is desired and comfortable, experiment with different positions that may reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
Example: Positions where you are on your back with legs elevated, or side-lying positions, can sometimes be more comfortable than traditional missionary positions. Communicate throughout to ensure comfort for both partners.
Lubrication: Vaginal dryness can exacerbate discomfort. Using a high-quality lubricant can significantly improve comfort during intimacy.
Example: Keep a water-based or silicone-based lubricant readily available and use it generously to reduce friction and discomfort.

Seeking Professional Guidance: Sex Therapy and Counseling

If challenges with intimacy persist or are causing significant distress, professional help can provide invaluable tools and strategies.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Sex Therapist: A sex therapist can provide a safe space to discuss sexual concerns, offer practical advice, and guide couples through exercises to rebuild intimacy and pleasure.
Example: A sex therapist might suggest specific communication techniques for discussing intimacy, or recommend exercises to gradually reintroduce touch and pleasure, helping you to feel more comfortable in your body.
Couples Counseling: If the enterocele has created broader relationship strain, couples counseling can help improve communication and coping strategies as a team.
Example: A counselor can help you and your partner work through underlying resentments or fears that may be exacerbated by the enterocele, fostering a stronger, more supportive relationship.

Self-Care and Mental Well-being: Nurturing Your Inner Strength

Coping with enterocele body changes isn’t solely about physical management; it’s also about fostering robust mental and emotional well-being. Prioritizing self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.

Prioritizing Rest and Recovery

The physical and emotional demands of managing enterocele can be taxing. Adequate rest and recovery are essential for both physical healing and mental resilience.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Schedule Downtime: Consciously schedule periods of rest and relaxation into your day, even if it’s just 15-20 minutes.
Example: Instead of pushing through fatigue, take a short nap, read a book, or listen to calming music during your lunch break or in the evening.
Quality Sleep: Prioritize good sleep hygiene. Create a calming bedtime routine, ensure your bedroom is dark and cool, and avoid screens before bed.
Example: Go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time each day, even on weekends. Avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime.

Engaging in Stress-Reducing Activities

Beyond deep breathing, actively engage in activities that genuinely reduce your stress levels and bring you joy.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Hobbies and Interests: Reconnect with hobbies that you enjoy but may have neglected.
Example: If you love painting, set aside time each week to paint. If you enjoy gardening, spend time tending to your plants. These activities provide a sense of accomplishment and distraction.
Nature Connection: Spending time in nature has profound calming effects.
Example: Take a regular walk in a local park, sit by a body of water, or simply spend time in your garden. Focus on the sights, sounds, and smells of nature.
Creative Expression: Journaling, drawing, or playing music can be powerful outlets for processing emotions and reducing stress.
Example: Keep a journal by your bedside and write down your thoughts and feelings before bed, helping to clear your mind.

Building a Strong Support System

You don’t have to navigate enterocele alone. A robust support system is invaluable for emotional resilience.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Lean on Trusted Friends and Family: Share your experiences with people you trust and who offer non-judgmental support.
Example: Have a candid conversation with a close friend or family member, explaining what you’re going through and how they can best support you, whether it’s by listening, offering practical help, or simply being present.
Support Groups: Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly validating and empowering. Look for online or in-person support groups focused on pelvic organ prolapse.
Example: Search for “enterocele support groups” or “pelvic organ prolapse forums” online. Participate actively, sharing your experiences and learning from others.
Professional Mental Health Support: If you’re struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, or difficulty coping, seek help from a therapist or counselor.
Example: A therapist can provide cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to challenge negative thought patterns, or teach coping skills to manage emotional distress.

Medical Management and Surgical Considerations: Informed Decision-Making

While this guide focuses on coping with body changes, it’s crucial to acknowledge that medical management and, in some cases, surgical intervention are part of the broader enterocele journey. Being well-informed about your options empowers you to make decisions that align with your values and goals, which in itself is a powerful coping mechanism.

Consulting with Specialists: A Team Approach

Managing enterocele effectively often requires a collaborative approach involving several specialists.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Urogynecologist: This is a gynecologist with specialized training in pelvic floor disorders. They are typically the primary specialist for diagnosing and treating enterocele.
Example: Schedule an appointment with a urogynecologist to get a definitive diagnosis, understand the severity of your enterocele, and discuss all available treatment options, both conservative and surgical.
Colorectal Surgeon: If bowel function is significantly impacted or there are concurrent colorectal issues, a colorectal surgeon may be part of your care team.
Example: If you experience severe constipation or fecal incontinence alongside your enterocele symptoms, your urogynecologist might recommend a consultation with a colorectal surgeon to assess for other contributing factors.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist: As mentioned earlier, PFPT is crucial for conservative management and post-surgical recovery.
Example: Ensure your healthcare team includes a referral to a pelvic floor physical therapist who can work in conjunction with your medical doctors.

Understanding Treatment Options: Conservative vs. Surgical

Being informed about the full spectrum of treatment options empowers you to make choices that align with your lifestyle and comfort levels.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Conservative Management: This includes lifestyle modifications, pelvic floor physical therapy, and pessary use. For many, these strategies are sufficient to manage symptoms.
Example: If your enterocele is mild and your symptoms are manageable, you might choose to start with a comprehensive conservative management plan, including PFPT and a pessary, before considering surgery.
Surgical Repair: If conservative measures are insufficient, or if the enterocele is severe and significantly impacts your quality of life, surgical repair may be an option. This typically involves lifting the small bowel back into place and repairing the weakened vaginal wall.
Example: Discuss the different surgical approaches (e.g., abdominal, laparoscopic, robotic, vaginal) with your urogynecologist, understanding the pros, cons, recovery times, and potential risks associated with each. Ask about success rates and recurrence rates.

Post-Surgical Recovery and Rehabilitation: A New Phase of Coping

Even after surgery, coping with body changes continues through the recovery and rehabilitation phase. This period requires patience, adherence to medical advice, and continued self-care.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Adherence to Post-Operative Instructions: Meticulously follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding activity restrictions, wound care, and medication. This is crucial for optimal healing and preventing recurrence.
Example: If advised to avoid heavy lifting for 6-8 weeks, strictly adhere to this to prevent undue strain on the surgical repair.
Gradual Return to Activity: Do not rush your recovery. Gradually reintroduce activities as advised by your healthcare team, and listen to your body’s signals.
Example: Begin with short, gentle walks and gradually increase duration and intensity as your body heals. Avoid high-impact activities until cleared by your doctor.
Continued Pelvic Floor Support: Your urogynecologist and physical therapist may recommend continued pelvic floor exercises and adherence to lifestyle modifications even after surgery to support the repair and prevent future issues.
Example: After your surgical recovery, continue with your prescribed pelvic floor exercises and maintain good bowel habits to support the long-term success of the repair.

The Power of Self-Advocacy: Being Your Own Champion

Coping with enterocele body changes is an active process that requires self-advocacy. You are the expert on your own body and your experiences. Empowering yourself through knowledge and assertive communication is key.

Educate Yourself Thoroughly

The more you understand about enterocele, your body, and your treatment options, the better equipped you will be to make informed decisions and cope effectively.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Reliable Information Sources: Seek information from reputable medical websites, peer-reviewed journals, and trusted healthcare professionals. Avoid unreliable sources that may cause unnecessary anxiety.
Example: Utilize resources from organizations like the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) or the National Association for Continence (NAFC) for accurate and up-to-date information.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare providers as many questions as you need to feel fully informed and comfortable with your treatment plan.
Example: Before an appointment, write down all your questions. During the appointment, don’t be afraid to say, “Can you explain that in simpler terms?” or “What are the alternatives to this approach?”

Communicate Effectively with Healthcare Providers

Clear and assertive communication with your medical team ensures your concerns are heard and addressed.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Be Specific About Symptoms: Provide detailed descriptions of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any aggravating or alleviating factors.
Example: Instead of saying “My pelvis feels heavy,” specify, “I feel a constant dragging sensation in my pelvis, which worsens when I stand for more than 30 minutes and feels better when I lie down.”
Express Your Goals and Preferences: Clearly articulate what you hope to achieve with treatment and what your priorities are.
Example: You might tell your doctor, “My main goal is to be able to exercise without discomfort,” or “I want to explore all non-surgical options before considering surgery.”
Bring a Support Person: If you feel overwhelmed or want an extra set of ears, bring a trusted friend or family member to appointments.
Example: Ask a partner or friend to accompany you to significant appointments to help take notes, remember questions, and provide emotional support.

Celebrate Small Victories and Practice Self-Compassion

The journey of coping with enterocele is not linear. There will be good days and challenging days. Acknowledge your efforts and treat yourself with kindness.

Actionable Explanation & Example:

Acknowledge Progress: Celebrate every small step forward, whether it’s managing a symptom for a day, trying a new exercise, or having an open conversation with your partner.
Example: If you managed to walk for 30 minutes without significant discomfort, acknowledge that as a positive step.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself, especially on difficult days. Avoid self-blame or negative self-talk.
Example: If you have a day where symptoms are worse, instead of thinking, “I’m a failure,” offer yourself compassion: “Today is a challenging day, and that’s okay. I’m doing my best.”
Flexibility and Adaptation: Understand that coping is an ongoing process of adjustment. Be flexible in your approach and willing to adapt as your body changes and responds.
Example: If a particular exercise aggravates your symptoms, don’t view it as a setback; simply adjust your routine and try a different approach.

Conclusion: Embracing Empowerment and a Fulfilling Life

Coping with enterocele body changes is an intricate dance between understanding, adapting, and nurturing. It’s a journey that demands patience, resilience, and a profound commitment to self-care. By actively engaging in your physical therapy, making thoughtful lifestyle modifications, fostering open communication in your relationships, and nurturing your emotional well-being, you can navigate these changes with confidence and grace. Remember, you are not defined by your diagnosis. You are empowered to make informed choices, advocate for your needs, and ultimately, reclaim comfort, confidence, and a fulfilling life. The path forward is not about returning to a mythical “old self,” but rather about embracing your strength, adapting to your body’s wisdom, and discovering new depths of resilience within yourself.