How to check for a vaginal prolapse

A prolapse is the protrusion of a pelvic organ beyond its normal anatomical boundaries. It has a significant adverse effect on quality of life and often results in the need for surgery. Although the cause is not known, evidence is accumulating that connective tissue abnormalities are important.

Acquired factors leading to prolapse include:

• vaginal delivery
• factors associated with a rise in intra-abdominal pressure
• adverse dietary influences, such as lack of vitamin C
• obesit
• corticosteroid therapy
• previous pelvic surgery.