Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is often related to stretching and pressure during labor and childbirth. This can occur when a woman delivers a large baby [over 9 lb (4 kg)] or when she has a long, difficult labor and delivery. Pelvic organ prolapse most often appears during menopause, as pelvic tissues damaged during childbearing age and lose strength.

Other things that may increase the risk for pelvic organ prolapse include:

• Obesity. Women who are overweight have increased pressure in the abdomen and have a higher rate of pelvic organ prolapse.
• Smoking and lung conditions that cause chronic coughing, which increases pressure in the abdomen and pelvis.
• Constipation. Chronic constipation causes increased pressure from the bowel on the vaginal wall.
• Certain occupations that require heavy lifting.
• Pelvic surgery, such as removal of the uterus (hysterectomy). This may damage support for a pelvic organ, which can result in movement of one or more organs within the pelvis.
• Diseases of the nervous system. Pelvic organ prolapse is more common in women who have multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, or a spinal cord injury than in women who do not have such conditions.
• Genetic factors. A weakness in the supportive tissue of the pelvis can be passed through families. If your mother or sister has had pelvic organ prolapse, you may be more likely to get it too.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.