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In pelvic organ prolapse, the vagina and the organs that surround and support it fall from their normal position. Mayo Clinic gynecologists, urogynecologists and reconstructive surgery specialists work closely together to evaluate and treat the different types of pelvic organ prolapse. Correcting this condition usually requires surgery and Mayo's surgeons have extensive experience with these procedures, including minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Mayo Clinic specialists look for symptoms of prolapse, which may include pressure in the vagina or pelvis; a lump or bulge at the opening of the vagina; and urinary, bowel and sexual dysfunction. Diagnostic evaluations include a Q-tip test, bladder function tests and pelvic floor strength tests; doctors may also use imaging tests such as an ultrasound, MRI or cystourethroscopy. Read more about pelvic organ prolapse diagnosis.
Patients may benefit from a pessary (a device worn in the vagina for support), avoiding heavy lifting, Kegel exercises, estrogen supplementation, electrical stimulation and biofeedback. However, in most cases, surgery is eventually required. Mayo Clinic surgeons use vaginal and abdominal procedures to correct pelvic organ prolapse. Read more about pelvic organ prolapse treatment options.
See illustrations of pelvic organ prolapse.
The network of muscles, ligaments and connective tissue in and around a woman's vagina acts as a complex support structure that holds pelvic organs in place. This support system may weaken or collapse, causing the pelvic organ to slip out of place (prolapse). There are different types of pelvic organ prolapse. The condition usually gets worse over time and requires surgery to fix.
Many women develop vaginal prolapse, usually following menopause, childbirth or a hysterectomy. One in 11 women will require surgery for pelvic organ prolapse in their lifetime — most of them older than 40.
Read more at www.MayoClinic.com (A service of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research).
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