Vaginal Prolapse? Why me? (and 34 million other women?!)

Learn more about the causes of vaginal prolapse

Vaginal prolapse happens when muscles and ligaments that hold pelvic organs in place are weakened or damaged, due to one or more causes. They’re simply unable to continue to provide enough support, resulting in uncomfortable, and even painful symptoms.

Considering how prevalent this condition is, it may seem that simply being a woman causes vaginal prolapse. Though that’s not true, it’s a common enough condition that it’s a good idea to understand the causes of vaginal prolapse so you can take action:

	Childbirth/Multiple births (especially vaginal delivery) Menopause Previous surgery Obesity Age Genetics/Ethnicity Hysterectomy Other

Childbirth/Multiple births (especially vaginal delivery)

Studies show that vaginal childbirth was the strongest risk factor for vaginal prolapse in women younger than 60 years. Compared with those who had not delivered children, the risk was 2 to 1 for women who had delivered two children, and 10 to 1 for someone with four or more children. Every additional delivery up to 5 births increased the risk of worsening prolapse by 10-20%.

Menopause

This is often cited as a risk factor for pelvic organ prolapse, yet there is a lack of evidence that finds an association between the two. However, as you approach menopause, it’s important to talk with your physician about any questions or concerns you have.

Previous surgery

Depending on the type of surgery, muscles and ligaments in the pelvic area may be damaged or weakened, which can contribute to the development of vaginal prolapse.

Obesity

There is information that indicates increasing body mass index (BMI) seems to play a role in developing vaginal prolapse–so women who are overweight are at a higher risk for developing this disorder.

Age

According to research, the chances of developing vaginal prolapse increase by 40% with each decade of life.

Genetics/Ethnicity

Studies show that there’s a higher risk of prolapse in women whose mothers or sisters report prolapse. Another study suggests that Hispanic and Asian women may have an increased risk of developing cystocele (one form of prolapse), and that overall, African-American women have a lower risk of prolapse compared with Caucasian women. While the reasons for these differences are unclear, there is some evidence that African-American women may have smaller pelvic outlets than women of European descent, which may place less strain on muscles and ligaments.

Hysterectomy

This procedure may heighten the risk of vaginal prolapse, although this condition often develops many years afterwards. In addition, the type of hysterectomy procedure may also affect the chances of future prolapse, so ask your physician if this may be a concern.

Other

When women experience repetitive straining, such as with chronic constipation, or with jobs that involve heavy lifting, the risk for vaginal prolapse may increase.