ABSTRACT

A prolapse is the protrusion of an organ or structure beyond its normal anatomical position. Pelvic organ prolapse is the descent of one or more vaginal segments: the anterior, posterior, and apex of the vagina or, after hysterectomy, the vaginal vault. Uterovaginal prolapse may be caused by breaks in the integrity of the uterosacral ligaments, weakness of pelvic floor muscles or changes in the normal vaginal axis. The pelvic organ prolapse is divided into the following categories according to which part is involved: cystocoele; rectocoele; and enterocoele and rectocoele. The treatment for genital prolapse can be either conservative or surgical, depending upon the severity of symptoms and prolapse, the patient’s age, her willingness for the treatment, and her suitability and fitness for surgery. Patients with first- or second-degree uterine prolapse, or with a small cystocoele or rectocoele, may not need any surgical treatment.