Celebrity Designer Diane Gilman Opens Up About Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Diane Gilman is a renowned designer and prominent Home Shopping Network (HSN) figure. As CanvasRebel states, she has been named TV’s “Queen of Jeans” or “Jean Queen.”
She has long been celebrated for her innovative fashion designs catering to mature women. In 2022, she also authored her second book, Too Young To Be Old.
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However, behind her vibrant on-screen presence, Gilman faced a deeply personal health battle that she kept private for years: pelvic organ prolapse (POP). At the age of 70, she chose to share her experience publicly, aiming to shed light on this often-stigmatized condition. Her aim was to encourage other women to seek help.
An Overview of POP
The bladder, uterus, and rectum are the pelvic organs supported by some muscles and tissues. When these supporting muscles and tissues weaken or stretch, these organs may descend from their normal positions. This situation causes a bulge in the vagina, causing pelvic organ prolapse.
According to a BMC Journal study, the prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse is around 9% worldwide. When talking specifically about the US, the rate is as high as 21.7% among American women aged between 18 and 83. Prevalence in older women is specifically high, with 30% of the women between 50 and 89 years facing the condition.
Menopause, childbearing, and aging naturally are common factors. From an obvious bulge in the vaginal canal to a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region, symptoms can vary widely. They may also include discomfort during physical activities and challenges in maintaining hygiene.
POP Treatment Approaches
Traditionally, surgical mesh implants have been a common solution for POP. However, issues including discomfort, infection, and mesh erosion have raised concerns. This may necessitate medical intervention and have serious long-term health effects. These issues have led many to wonder what can be used instead of mesh for prolapse.
As stated by TruLaw, there are several other options that patients can opt for. One such option is native tissue repair. In this method, your body’s healthy tissues will be used to repair the damaged or weakened ones. There’s also sacrocolpopexy, which involves using your tissues or biological grafts to correct the prolapse.
In addition to these surgical procedures, patients can also opt for pelvic muscle floor training exercises. These exercises can be extremely helpful, especially if the condition is in its initial stages and surgery is avoidable. They can help strengthen pelvic muscles to ensure the prolapsed organs return to normal positions.
Diane Gilman’s Journey
Diane says that she silently endured the discomfort and challenges associated with pelvic organ prolapse for eight years. The condition became so severe that during airport security checks, TSA agents would question her about apparent irregularities. They suspected she was concealing items.
Recalling one such incident, Gilman shared that the first time it happened, she was getting on a flight to Italy. She had to tell the security woman what she was going to see, which would be horrifying. By the time they came out of the room, they were in tears.
The profound discomfort and emotional toll led Gilman to seek medical intervention. She underwent a surgical procedure known as transabdominal surgery, which is considered the gold standard for repairing pelvic organ prolapse.
Transabdominal surgery is traditionally used for preterm birth control. The idea is to use sutures to reduce blood loss and shorten hospital stays. In the context of prolapse control, the aim is to reinforce the pelvic floor. According to an NCBI study, it helps narrow the anorectal hiatus and reconstructs its angle.
Breaking the Silence
After her successful surgery and recovery, Gilman felt compelled to share her story. She underlined how important it is to have candid conversations on such subjects. She claims to be completely rejuvenated, feeling 20 years younger and in better condition than she has ever been. Her goal was to bring pelvic floor problems out of the closet and into the public eye.
By speaking out, Gilman aimed to destigmatize pelvic organ prolapse and encourage women experiencing symptoms to seek medical advice without hesitation. Her openness has been instrumental in raising awareness and fostering conversations about a condition that affects many but is seldom discussed.
This was necessary because many patients usually feel shy about discussing their pelvic organ disorders. The primary reason is considered to be the embarrassing symptoms of these conditions. For instance, pelvic organ prolapse can lead to urinary incontinence, which can sometimes be embarrassing for women to talk about.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the early warning signs of pelvic organ prolapse?
A lower abdominal sensation of weight or pressure or trouble emptying the bladder or intestines are the early warning signs of this condition. With time, the symptoms may also include discomfort when exercising and slight vaginal swelling. Additionally, some women may have greater urgency in their urine or lower back discomfort.
Are there non-surgical treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse?
Yes, non-surgical treatments include hormone therapy (in certain circumstances), pelvic floor physical therapy, pessaries, and lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes can include controlling weight and avoiding hard lifting. However, the severity of the ailment determines how successful these therapies are.
Can pelvic organ prolapse affect sexual function?
Yes, prolapse can cause pain, diminished feeling, or discomfort for some women during sexual activity. Nonetheless, procedures like pelvic floor therapy and surgery can enhance the comfort and functionality of sex. However, it is advised to consult with your doctor before having intercourse while facing prolapse or getting treated for the same.
Diane Gilman‘s forthright admission of her battle with pelvic organ prolapse is a potent reminder of the value of open communication and health activism. Her experience serves as a reminder that talking about health concerns and getting treatment may result in practical solutions, which can help enhance the quality of life. Gilman has opened the door for many other women to confront their health issues without shame or fear.
