Causes of pelvic organ prolapse

Key takeaways

• This rewrite is classified as medical_condition and focuses on causes of pelvic organ prolapse.
• Pelvic organ prolapse can happen when pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues no longer support the bladder, womb or bowel as strongly. Pregnancy, vaginal birth, ageing, menopause, constipation, heavy lifting, chronic cough and higher body weight can all contribute.
• Symptoms can overlap between common and serious causes, so assessment and testing matter when symptoms are new, persistent or worrying.
• Treatment options should be chosen after consultation; suitability depends on symptoms, examination findings, medical history and personal priorities.

Overview

Pelvic organ prolapse can happen when pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues no longer support the bladder, womb or bowel as strongly. Pregnancy, vaginal birth, ageing, menopause, constipation, heavy lifting, chronic cough and higher body weight can all contribute.

Prolapse symptoms can feel embarrassing, but they are common enough that clinicians are used to discussing them. Treatment should be based on examination findings and how much symptoms affect daily life.

Why it happens

The pelvic floor is a hammock of muscles, fascia and ligaments. When these supports stretch or weaken, pressure from the bladder, womb or bowel can push into the vaginal wall.

Assessment and options

Assessment may include symptom questions, pelvic examination and discussion of bladder, bowel and sexual symptoms. Options may include pelvic floor training, pessary fitting, menopause-related vaginal treatment where suitable, or referral to discuss surgery.

When to seek medical advice

Seek medical advice if you feel a bulge, pelvic pressure, urinary or bowel symptoms, pain, bleeding, difficulty passing urine, or symptoms that affect sex or daily activities. Use NHS 111 for urgent advice if symptoms are sudden or severe, and call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

Sources

• NHS, Pelvic organ prolapse: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pelvic-organ-prolapse/
  Relevance: NHS explains prolapse symptoms, causes, diagnosis, pelvic floor exercises, pessaries, surgery and when to get medical help.
• NICE NG123, Urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in women: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng123/chapter/Recommendations
  Relevance: NICE gives UK recommendations on prolapse assessment, conservative care, pessaries and surgical decision-making.
• NHS, Urinary incontinence: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-incontinence/
  Relevance: NHS provides related bladder symptom guidance because prolapse and urinary symptoms can overlap.

Disclaimer

Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.