Correlation between Mediterranean diet, bowel function, and isolated posterior vaginal defect: A cross-sectional...

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Urogynecology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition affecting women's health.
• Isolated posterior prolapse (IPCP) has been associated with chronic obstructive defecation.
• The role of diet, specifically adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD), in POP development is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between low adherence to a Mediterranean diet (LAMD) and bowel dysfunction.
• To evaluate the relationship between LAMD and the occurrence of isolated posterior compartment prolapse (IPCP).

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted involving 204 women undergoing POP repair surgery.
• Dietary habits were assessed using a validated Mediterranean diet (MD) questionnaire.
• Data on bowel dysfunction, body mass index, and surgical repair types were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Women with LAMD exhibited higher prevalence of constipation symptoms and elevated body mass index.
• Surgical repairs for posterior compartment prolapse, both isolated and combined, were more frequent in the LAMD group.
• Prolapse in all compartments except the apical was more prevalent in women with LAMD.

Conclusions:

• Low adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with a higher incidence of posterior vaginal defects, including IPCP.
• LAMD and associated bowel dysfunction are significant contributing factors to posterior vaginal compartment prolapse.
• Dietary interventions may play a role in the prevention and management of POP.