Case study: Reversal of pelvic floor prolapse symptoms with Ashtanga Yoga of Mysore

The incidence of pelvic organ prolapse is 18%–56% 3–6 months postpartum in women of childbearing age. In spite of this common condition being more than just a nuisance, it also leads to hysterectomy in 20% of women, and other surgical interventions may be preventable with a course of pelvic floor physical therapy and elaborate training in yogic techniques, to improve the tone and strength of the pelvic floor muscles, after allowing time for tissue healing postpartum. This article outlines the details of such training, with the underlying scientific principles and physiological underpinnings. The article also describes these techniques in detail for novices, emphasizing the importance of experienced yogic therapists and physical therapists working closely with patients, physicians, and obstetrician-gynecologist specialists. The article illustrates the positive outcome of such techniques in a case study presented in detail. The article goes a little beyond its scope to elaborate the Ashtanga Yoga of Mysore to place the techniques in a holistic context to emphasize their integration in medical, gynecological, and physical therapy treatment modalities. Surgery needs to be the last resort for this reversible condition.

Abstract licence: CC BY-NC-SA

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