The term prolapse is derived from the Latin word "Procidere" meaning to fall. In medicine, prolapse refers to the condition where an organ has slipped out of its proper place. Pelvic organ prolapse is a dropping down of pelvic organs (such as the bladder, bowel, uterus, or rectum) into the vagina. It is a very common condition, particularly among older women and has been estimated that half of women who have children will experience some form of prolapse in the future. Pelvic organ prolapse is caused by weakening or damage to the normal supportive structures of the pelvis, and many experts believe that these injuries are sustained during childbirth, but manifest themselves later in life. These supportive structures (ligaments, muscles, and normally strong tissue called fascia) may become weaker with age, changes in hormone levels (menopause), and/or previous pelvic surgery such as hysterectomy. This alteration in the normal support allows the bladder, bowel, uterus and/or rectum to bulge or prolapse into the vagina.

The symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse can range from mild to severe, depending upon the position of the prolapsed organ. Mild prolapse may not cause any symptoms. Moderate prolapse may cause a feeling of pressure in the vagina, discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back. Severe prolapse causes the same types of symptoms, but the pelvic organ is dropped down so far that it is visible or protruding through the vaginal opening and may be noticed as a "soft egg" at the vaginal opening. In most cases, standing for long periods of time causes the discomfort to worsen. Prolapse can also cause urinary symptoms, including stress and urge incontinence, and a feeling of being unable to empty the bladder completely. Being overweight can also make symptoms worse. Symptoms related to the bowel include constipation, flatulence, and difficulty holding in bowel movements. Lastly, there may be significant discomfort during sexual activity or a feeling that the vagina is "too loose".

Pelvic organ prolapse is diagnosed through a thorough pelvic examination, and there are both surgical and nonsurgical ways to manage and correct pelvic organ prolapse. Treatment should take into consideration which organs are affected, a woman's age, her desire for future pregnancy, sexual activity, the severity of symptoms, and whether other medical conditions are present. Many women who have pelvic organ prolapse do not have symptoms, and as such, do not require any treatment. Nonsurgical treatments available include special exercises called Kegel exercises which can be used to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor to help lessen the symptoms of prolapse and reduce its progression. Another option is a pessary, which is a small silicone device that is placed into the vagina to help support the uterus, vagina, bladder and rectum. However, some women with prolapse cannot retain a pessary in the vagina for various reasons.

Surgery is for those women in whom nonsurgical modalities have failed or in those women who are unwilling or unable to utilize the nonsurgical approaches. The goals of surgery are to relieve symptoms, to restore normal anatomy and to allow for satisfactory sexual relations. Since pelvic organ prolapse is often caused or made worse by pregnancy, labor, and delivery, it is a good idea to delay surgical repair until childbearing is complete. All women with prolapse should avoid any type of activity that requires heavy lifting or straining, optimize regular bowel function, avoid constipation, follow a healthy diet, and maintain an appropriate weight.