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Updated: May 23, 2026
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Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System
Published on: September 20, 2018
Pelvic organ prolapse quantification use in the literature
Ian A Oyama1, Adam C Steinberg, Travis K Watai
1John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA. ioyama@hawaii.edu
Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery
|March 29, 2012
Summary
The Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POPQ) system may require simplification. Analysis of literature suggests an abbreviated version could increase its widespread clinical use for pelvic organ prolapse.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Urogynecology
- Female Pelvic Medicine
Background:
- Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects a significant number of women.
- Standardized measurement systems are crucial for diagnosis and treatment evaluation.
- The Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POPQ) system is a widely used tool.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utilization of the POPQ system in peer-reviewed literature.
- To determine if the POPQ system requires simplification for broader application.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of POPQ system usage was conducted.
- Articles from key urogynecology journals (2005-2010) were analyzed.
- Documentation of specific POPQ points used in each study was recorded.
Main Results:
- 283 articles utilizing the POPQ system were identified.
- 47% of studies only used POPQ to determine prolapse stage, omitting specific points.
- 36% evaluated standard POPQ points (Aa, Ba, Ap, Bp, C, D), while 17% included additional points (Gh, Pb, Tvl).
Conclusions:
- The current application of the POPQ system in research suggests potential for revision.
- An abbreviated POPQ system could enhance its usability and adoption.
- Simplification may lead to more consistent and widespread use in clinical practice.
