Condition guide
Pelvic organ prolapse
Understand pelvic organ prolapse symptoms, assessment and non-surgical or surgical treatment pathways at ULC in Cape Town.
In brief
What is pelvic organ prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the bladder, uterus, vaginal vault or rectum descends because the supporting tissues have weakened. Treatment depends on the type and severity of prolapse, its effect on daily life and the patient’s preferences.
This page provides general education, not a diagnosis or personalised treatment plan. Assessment and treatment are tailored to your health, findings and preferences.
Symptoms people may notice
- A bulge, lump or dragging sensation in the vagina
- Pelvic pressure that may worsen after standing
- Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel
- Discomfort during activity or intercourse
How assessment may proceed
- A detailed history of bladder, bowel and pelvic symptoms
- A consent-based pelvic examination to identify the affected compartments
- Bladder testing or imaging when symptoms are complex or the result may change treatment
- Discussion of health, fertility, sexual function and treatment priorities
Conservative options
- Supervised pelvic floor muscle training
- Addressing constipation, chronic coughing and other sources of strain
- A vaginal pessary with fitting and planned follow-up
- Observation when symptoms are mild and not troublesome
Procedures and surgery
- Native-tissue vaginal repair
- Apical suspension procedures
- Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy or hysteropexy in selected patients
- A tailored discussion of uterine-preserving and hysterectomy options
When to seek urgent care
- Sudden inability to pass urine
- A painful prolapse that cannot be reduced
- Bleeding, ulceration, fever or rapidly worsening symptoms
Related care
Relevant procedure guides
Questions
Common questions about pelvic organ prolapse
Consultation
