Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Prevalence and Risk Factors

The uterus is an organ of the female reproductive system. It is approximately the shape and size of the pear, located inside the pelvis. The bladder, uterus and bowel are supported by a hammock of muscles slung between the coccyx and pubic bone. If these tissues are weakened or damaged, the uterus can slip down in to the vagina which is known as uterine prolpase. It is estimated that the lifetime risk of requiring at least 1 operation to correct incontinence or prolapse is approximately 11%. Common causes of uterine prolpase include obesity, straining on the toilet and hormonal change after menopause. Treatment includes strengthening exercise of pelvic floor muscle. A vaginal pessary for uterine prolapsed during pregnancy was first used in 1949, it can be inserted to support the uterus and reduce the symptoms associated with the prolapsed. Surgery may be needed in many cases.