What is pelvic organ prolapse?

• A. Descent of pelvic organs into the vaginal canal.
• B. Inflammation of the pelvic lining.
• C. Prolapse limited to the uterus only.
• D. Injury to the pelvic muscles during delivery.

Answer: (A)

Pelvic organ prolapse is when the structures that support the pelvic organs weaken or stretch, allowing one or more pelvic organs to descend toward or into the vaginal canal. This can involve the uterus, the bladder (cystocele), or the rectum (rectocele), and it may affect anterior, apical, or posterior compartments. It’s a description of mechanical support failure, not inflammation, nor is it limited to the uterus. While childbirth and aging are common risk factors that contribute to this weakening, the key idea is the downward descent of pelvic organs into the vaginal area.