Vaginal prolapse occurs when an organ in the pelvis or the top portion of the vagina drops down into or protrudes through the vagina. This condition occurs when the muscles, ligaments and other structures surrounding the vagina are weakened or damaged. Vaginal prolapse is more common in women who have give birth, experienced menopause and/or had a hysterectomy.

There are five types of vaginal prolapse that may occur:

• Cystocele occurs when the front of the vaginal wall weakens, allowing the bladder to herniated into the vagina.
• Enterocele occurs when the front and back vaginal walls separate, allowing the small bowel to press against or herniated into the vagina.
• Rectocele occurs when the back of the vaginal wall weakens and the rectum presses against or prolapses into the vagina.
• Uterine prolapse occurs when the ligaments that support the top of the vagina weaken which may cause the front and back of the vaginal walls to weaken as well, resulting in the prolapse of the uterus.
• Vaginal vault prolapse occurs when the upper portion of the vagina drops toward the vaginal opening after the removal of the uterus.

Symptoms

The symptoms of vaginal prolapse vary depending on which type of prolapse has occurred. The most common symptoms are:

• A sensation that the organs are out of place; pressure in the vagina or pelvis; discomfort during sexual intercourse; recurrent urinary tract infections

Treatments

The treatment for vaginal prolapse depends on the cause of the condition and the severity of the symptoms. The most common treatment options are:

• Kegel Exercise: uses a tightening and relaxing of the sphincter muscle to promote strengthening of the pelvic floor.
• Vaginal Pessaries: uses a silicone or latex devices which is inserted into the vagina to compress the urethra and support the bladder neck.
• Estrogen Replacement Therapy: uses hormones administered internally or externally to help improve the support structure of the pelvic area.
• Surgery: uses a mesh-like material or slings to correct the position of the organ and to secure it in place.

Please visit our Center for Sexual Health website to learn more on treatments for vaginal prolapse.