Pelvic Organ Prolapse Explained
What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) occurs when the muscles or ligaments in your pelvic floor are stretched or become too weak to hold your organs in the correct position. When this happens, organs such as the bladder, rectum and uterus can bulge (prolapse) into the vagina and sometimes past the vaginal opening. Imagine a hammock tied between two trees. Now imagine that same hammock after years of heavy use.
Potential causes of POP include:
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth
- Menopause
- And Many More
Pelvic Organ Prolapse can be treated several ways, depending on the exact nature and severity of your condition. Before you go below the belt, talk with your doctor to determine which treatment is right for you.
WHO HAS PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE?
Pelvic Organ Prolapse is more common among women than you might think. The important thing to remember is you’re not alone. There are many women out there just like you who experience pain and discomfort associated with prolapse. But you don’t have to continue living like this; options are available to you. If you are concerned that you might have prolapse, talk to your doctor today.
Up to 50% of women may suffer from POP1
POP afflicts over 3 million women in the United States2
1 in 9 women will need prolapse surgery in their lifetime3
If you’re experiencing common symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse, you don’t have to learn to live with it. Talk to your doctor today.
Speak up for a stronger you.
Ready to talk to a physician? There are many specialists who focus on pelvic floor disorders. You can search by name, state or zip code to find the right one for you.
HELPFUL GUIDES
Download and print for easier reading
Boston Scientific is committed to bringing more hope, more health and more life to women around the world. Learn more
References
1. Vaginal Pessary for Pelvic Organ Prolapse. IUGA. "http://www.yourpelvicfloor.org/conditions/vaginal-pessary-for-pelvic-organ-prolapse" www.yourpelvicfloor.org/conditions/vaginal-pessary-for-pelvic-organ-prolapse. Accessed September 2018.
2. Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Health, Help, Hope, and Healing. APOPS. pelvicorganprolapsesupport.org/pelvic-organ-prolapse-help-and-hope. Accessed September 2018.
3. Pelvic Organ Prolapse. IUGA. "http://www.yourpelvicfloor.org/conditions/pelvic-organ-prolapse" www.yourpelvicfloor.org/conditions/pelvic-organ-prolapse. Accessed April 30, 2021.