What Is a Vaginal or Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)?
Muscles, ligaments and skin, in and around the vagina, support and hold the female pelvic organs and tissues in place by acting as a hammock. However, pregnancy, childbirth, ageing, and the menopause, all contribute to the stretching and weakening of these pelvic floor muscles. The result can be a vaginal prolapse - where the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, rectum, bladder, urethra, small bowel, or even the vagina itself, fall out of their normal position. As a vaginal prolapse usually involves the vagina, plus another organ, it is often referred to as a Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP).
Around 40% of us will be affected by a vaginal prolapse by the time we reach our 60's, and this figure rises to 50% of us over 50. Although not life-threatening, it can cause severe pain and discomfort, especially...