What it is
It is not life threatening but can cause discomfort and problems with peeing, pooing or sex.
Pelvic floor exercises, weight loss and a vaginal pessary can help. Surgery may be offered if symptoms are troublesome.
Common signs
- A feeling of heaviness or dragging in the vagina
- A bulge or lump in or coming out of the vagina
- Discomfort during sex
- Problems peeing or a feeling the bladder is not empty
- Difficulty emptying the bowels
How it is usually diagnosed
- Questions about symptoms and a vaginal examination
- Sometimes bladder tests or a scan
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Gynaecology or urogynaecology letters
- Physiotherapy plans
- Pessary fitting and change records
- Surgery notes
Questions to ask your doctor
- How severe is the prolapse?
- Would a pessary suit me?
- When would surgery be worth considering?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Being unable to pee, or a prolapse that cannot be pushed back and is painful: get urgent help the same day
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.