What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition that occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs slip from their normal position and push against the walls of the vagina.

Causes
The pelvic organs are held in place by a network of muscles called the pelvic floor. If those muscles become weakened or damaged, they lose their ability to support the pelvic organs. As a result, the pelvic organs can then slide downward into the vagina.

Pelvic organ prolapse is most common among women who have had more than one natural birth, have had a hysterectomy, or are over 55 years old. Other risk factors include any type of additional pressure on the pelvis, such as obesity, a chronic cough or frequent constipation.

Symptoms
The most common symptom of pelvic organ prolapse is a sensation of something drooping or bulging into the vagina. Other symptoms may include a pressure or discomfort in your pelvic region, back pain, and pain during intercourse. You may also notice changes in your urination or bowel movements, including incontinence, constipation or recurring symptoms of a urinary tract infection.

Diagnosis
Your doctor will perform a vaginal exam to determine which organ is prolapsing and how severely. Additional tests may also be recommended, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound or cystourethroscopy—a test that uses a thin tube with a light and lens to look inside the urethra.

View our patient guide for illustrations and more detailed information. You can also visit our resource library for physicians. Please note this information has been created for medical professionals and may not be appropriate for everyone.