Prolapse

What is Prolapse?

Prolapse is a condition in which the vaginal walls or the womb (uterus) come down or bulge, resulting in a lump in the vagina, often with the sensation of ‘something coming down below’.

Prolapse of the womb or vagina is very common.  Over 10% of women will have an operation for prolapse at some time in their lives, however, about a third of these women will need more than one operation.

Prolapse may occur because of damage to the pelvic floor during pregnancy and childbirth. It may also occur as a result of other medical conditions that can damage the muscles, nerves and ligaments in the pelvis. In rare cases, an abdominal or pelvic mass or tumour can cause a prolapse or make a prolapse worse.

The womb lies between the bladder and the back passage (rectum) and is supported by muscles and ligaments of the pelvis and pelvic floor.  When these ligaments and muscles become loose or over-stretched, the womb and vagina are less well supported and begin to prolapse or ‘drop downwards’. The bladder and rectum are also nearby, so prolapse is often associated with urinary and bowel symptoms, though many of these symptoms are not directly caused by prolapse itself and may therefore not be improved or cured if the prolapse is treated.