Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
03:49
Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System
Published on: September 20, 2018
Posterior vaginal compartment prolapse and defecatory dysfunction: are they related?
Cara L Grimes1, Emily S Lukacz
1Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA. cara@jhu.edu
International Urogynecology Journal
|January 7, 2012
Summary
This review explores the link between posterior vaginal anatomy and obstructed defecation in women with pelvic floor disorders. Understanding this relationship is key to improving diagnosis and treatment for these common conditions.
Area of Science:
- Urogynecology
- Pelvic Floor Disorders
- Female Anatomy
Background:
- Posterior vaginal compartment prolapse and defecatory dysfunction are common in women.
- The connection between posterior vaginal anatomy and obstructed defecation symptoms is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anatomy of the posterior vaginal compartment.
- To define defecatory dysfunction and obstructed defecation.
- To explore the correlation between posterior compartment anatomy and function.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of anatomical studies, symptom measurement tools, physical findings, and imaging in women with posterior compartment prolapse.
- Critical analysis of existing research.
Main Results:
- Discusses definitions and classification systems for defecatory dysfunction.
- Highlights available tools for assessing symptoms, physical findings, and imaging.
- Investigates the correlation between posterior compartment anatomy and function based on current literature.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to clarify the relationship between posterior compartment anatomy and function.
- Proposed definitions for obstructed defecation and significant posterior compartment prolapse for future study.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Muscles of the Pelvic Floor and Perineum
The muscles of the pelvic floor and perineum are crucial for supporting the pelvic organs, controlling continence, and aiding in sexual function, childbirth, and core stability. They are typically divided into the superficial perineal layer and the deep pelvic floor layer.
Perineal Layer
The perineum is a diamond-shaped area below the pelvic diaphragm, divided into an anterior urogenital triangle that contains the external genitals and a posterior anal triangle housing the anus. The urogenital...
Perineal Layer
The perineum is a diamond-shaped area below the pelvic diaphragm, divided into an anterior urogenital triangle that contains the external genitals and a posterior anal triangle housing the anus. The urogenital...
01:27Diverticular Disease of the Colon
Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
01:25Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
01:28Microbiota of the Urogenital Tract
The human urogenital system, once thought to be sterile in healthy individuals, is now recognized as a complex microbial habitat. Advancements in molecular sequencing techniques have revealed that even in healthy adults, the kidneys and bladder harbor microbial populations similar to those found in the distal urethra, albeit in much lower abundance. These resident microorganisms, while generally innocuous, can become opportunistic pathogens under conditions that alter the urogenital...
01:21Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
01:24Disorders of the Female Reproductive System
The female reproductive system can be affected by several disorders, including Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), endometriosis, and various forms of cancer. PMS and PMDD are cyclical conditions that cause physical and emotional distress, with symptoms that include edema, mood swings, and food cravings. PMDD is a more severe form of PMS characterized by increased symptom severity that peaks during the luteal phase and tends to improve or resolve shortly after...