What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

•  POP (Pelvic Organ Prolapse)

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse? (Definition/Background Information)

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a condition in which a pelvic organ drops from its normal place in the lower belly, and pushes against the walls of the vagina
• Most cases of POP occur due to a weakening of the muscles that hold the pelvic organs in place
• This condition can occur with the bladder (most common), the urethra, the uterus, the small bowel, and the rectum, among others.

Who gets Pelvic Organ Prolapse? (Age and Sex Distribution)

Pelvic Organ Prolapse occurs only in females. It usually affects older women at a higher rate than, younger women. 

What are the Risk Factors for Pelvic Organ Prolapse? (Predisposing Factors)

Common risk factors of Pelvic Organ Prolapse include:

• Strain during childbirth
• Hysterectomy
• Obesity
• Frequent constipation
• Frequent cough
• Tumors affecting the pelvic organs
• A family history of POP

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse? (Etiology)

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse is caused by a weakening of the supporting muscles and tissue, located at the floor/base of the pelvis
• Normally, these muscles help hold all organs of the pelvic region, in place. When these muscles are weakened, they are unable to function as effectively, allowing organs to slip out of place and push onto the walls of the vagina

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Signs and symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse include:

• Pelvic organ pressure against vaginal walls
• Leakage of urine
• ‘Feeling full’ in the lower belly
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Constipation, and other bowel problems

How is Pelvic Organ Prolapse Diagnosed?

To diagnose a Pelvic Organ Prolapse, a physical examination is conducted by the physicians. In the physical exam, an examination of pelvic organs is performed to determine the type of prolapse and its severity.

Using a questionnaire, the physician assesses the individual’s medical history, family’s medical history, and the types of symptoms that are present.

Other tests that are available to confirm a diagnosis of POP include:

• Cotton swab test
• Bladder function test
• Pelvic floor strength tests
• MRI
• Ultrasound
• Cystoscopy

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. 

What are the possible Complications of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Serious complications that could be life-threatening may arise during surgery, to treat Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

How is Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treated?

To treat a Pelvic Organ Prolapse, a variety of options are available. The treatment depends on the type of POP that is present:

• Medications may be used; these help increase estrogen levels in the body that could help strengthen the pelvic muscles
• Physical therapy is also often used to treat POP. Pelvic floor exercises with bio-feedback are used, to improve muscle capabilities and monitor progress
• Various types of surgical procedures are available to treat the condition. All of them help improve the positioning of pelvic organs and minimize the pressure that is put on the vagina

How can Pelvic Organ Prolapse be Prevented?

It is often difficult to prevent the occurrence of a Pelvic Organ Prolapse. However, in order to ensure that a POP does not worsen, it is important to follow these recommendations:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid smoking
• Correct constipation
• Avoid heavy lifting
• Avoid jumping
• Do pelvic strengthening exercises 

What is the Prognosis of Pelvic Organ Prolapse? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

With proper treatment and management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse, most women with the condition are able to improve their symptoms and resume normal life. 

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Pelvic Organ Prolapse:

Uterine prolapse is a condition in which the uterus slips out of its normal position, often putting pressure against the vaginal walls.