Uterine prolapse: impact of the condition and practical advice

Pelvic-organ prolapse is where organs such as the uterus move out of place; in some cases, they can protrude out of the body. It occurs when muscles extending from the pubic bone to the coccyx or the levator ani muscles become weak or are injured. Although it is not life-threatening, the condition can be life limiting, adversely affecting physiological processes, function and quality of life, with patients reporting years of pain, discomfort, humiliation and embarrassment. Uterine prolapse is often under-reported as women may feel resigned to a condition that is viewed as part of getting old or the menopause, or a consequence of childbirth; they may also feel embarrassed. Gynaecology has the fastest growing waiting lists of any NHS specialty, and women may wait a long time for treatment. This article focuses on uterine prolapse, management of symptoms from conservative self-help to surgical options, and includes a case study of a successful laparoscopic hysteropexy with bifurcated polypropylene mesh apical support procedure carried out by a skilled surgeon.