ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the aetiology of urogenital prolapse and preventative measures. Urogenital prolapse occurs when there is a weakness in the supporting structures of the pelvic floor allowing the pelvic viscera to descend and ultimately fall through the anatomical defect. The incidence of urogenital prolapse increases with increasing age, with approximately 60 percent of elderly women having some degree of prolapse and up to half of all women over the age of 50 years complaining of symptomatic prolapse. Urogenital prolapse is more common following childbirth, although it may be asymptomatic. The pelvic floor provides support to the pelvic viscera and consists of the levator ani muscles, urogenital diaphragm, endopelvic fascia and perineal body. The urogenital diaphragm is a triangular sheet of dense fibrous tissue spanning the anterior half of the pelvic outlet, which is pierced by the vagina and urethra. Pelvic surgery may have an effect on the occurrence of urogenital prolapse.
