Women's Health
Treating pelvic organ prolapse
Options range from doing nothing to surgical repair.
Pelvic relaxation is weakness or laxity in the supporting structures of the pelvic region. Bladder, urethral, rectal, or uterine tissue may then bulge into or out of the vagina. This is called pelvic organ prolapse. It's not a dangerous condition, and it doesn't necessarily worsen over time, but it can drastically affect a woman's quality of life by causing discomfort and embarrassment and limiting sexual and physical activity.
Pelvic organ prolapse was once rarely recognized, and rarely discussed when it was recognized. But today it has become a priority because women are living longer and want to stay active. Many primary care clinicians and gynecologists routinely screen women for symptoms, and a surgical subspecialty called urogynecology has arisen to correct prolapse conditions and the urinary incontinence that often results.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
