Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse - assessment, treatment and a return to quality of life.

Pelvic organ prolapse (descent of the uterus, vagina, bladder or rectum) is a common problem, especially after childbirth and during menopause. It can cause a feeling of “heaviness” or pressure in the vagina, a visible bulge, urinary or bowel difficulties and discomfort during intercourse. At Polyclinic Cito we perform a detailed gynecological assessment and propose the best treatment plan - from exercises and local therapy, through pessary use, to surgical options when needed.

Page Overview

What is pelvic organ prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the supporting structures of the pelvic floor (muscles and connective tissue) weaken, so the pelvic organs move downwards and can “bulge” into the vagina or outwards. In other words, the structures that normally hold the organs in place weaken, so the organs descend and cause various problems. The most common causes are childbirth, ageing, menopause, obesity or a chronic cough.

Note: It can be mild and without symptoms - it is treated when it causes complaints or impairs quality of life.

The most common forms are:

  • cystocele - descent of the bladder
  • rectocele - descent of the final part of the bowel
  • uterine prolapse - descent of the uterus
  • vaginal vault prolapse - after certain operations (e.g. after a hysterectomy)

When is an examination recommended?

If you have symptoms or a suspicion of organ prolapse, the examination allows an assessment of the degree of prolapse and the choice of appropriate treatment.

Preventive examination and check-ups

  • after childbirth, especially if there were difficult deliveries or vaginal deliveries
  • in perimenopause or menopause with new complaints
  • for a previously diagnosed prolapse, to monitor the condition

Symptoms and situations that require an examination 

  • a feeling of pressure or heaviness in the pelvis (a feeling that “something is falling out”)
  • a visible bulge in or outside the vagina
  • frequent urination, urgency, urine leakage or difficulty urinating
  • constipation and the need to strain, including during bowel movements 
  • worsening of symptoms on exertion, lifting, or standing for a long time
A quick decision: If you notice a pronounced bulge, sores or bleeding of the mucosa and difficulties with urination - contact a doctor as soon as possible.

What does the examination and assessment of prolapse look like?

The examination is discreet and gentle, and the aim is to assess the degree of prolapse and its impact on urination, bowel movements and everyday activities. 

1. Conversation and symptoms

The gynaecologist assesses when the feeling of pressure occurs, whether there are problems with urination and bowel movements, and the impact of the symptoms on daily life.

2. Gynaecological examination

gynaecological examination  is performed, assessing the position of the vagina and pelvic organs and the degree of descent (if needed in different positions/under strain).

3. Ultrasound (if needed)

Ultrasound helps in the further assessment of pelvic structures and in ruling out other causes of complaints.

4. Treatment plan

Based on the findings, an individual treatment plan is agreed, which may include exercises, local therapy, a pessary or surgical methods if needed.

Prolapse often goes together with urinary incontinence or a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder or bowel. The treatment plan also takes these complaints into account.
Treatment often starts with conservative methods, and surgical treatment is considered when the symptoms persist or when conservative measures are not enough.

How to prepare for the examination?

  • Note your main symptoms and when they are most pronounced, e.g. a feeling of pressure in the pelvis, that something "is falling out", worsening when standing, on exertion or at the end of the day. 
  • If you have problems with urination, note the frequency or any leakage of urine.
  • Bring earlier findings and a list of your therapy if you have them (gynaecological findings, pelvic ultrasound, a list of medicines) 

If you have given birth, it is useful to state the number of deliveries and any complications during childbirth. 

Quick check before you arrive

  • Do I need to come fasting?
    No. For this examination there is no need to come fasting.
  • Will the examination hurt?
    The examination is gentle and adapted, and the doctor explains each step.
  • Do I need to come with a full bladder?
    Not necessarily - you receive instructions when booking if a specific protocol is needed.
Note:We advise arriving with a moderately full bladder, as this can sometimes help in a more precise assessment of the degree of descent of the pelvic organs.

What do you gain from the examination?

The aim of the examination is to make a clear diagnosis and create a plan that helps to reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of everyday life. Our team provides you with: 

1
An assessment of the degree of prolapse
Which organ is predominantly affected and how much this explains your symptoms.
2
An individual treatment plan
Pelvic floor exercises, local therapy, a vaginal pessary or surgical options if needed.
3
A plan for monitoring and preventing deterioration

What you can do at home, when a follow-up is needed and which symptoms to pay attention to.

In practice this means

  • an explanation of the findings in an understandable way
  • a recommendation for the simplest effective step
  • advice on lifestyle habits (weight, exertion, constipation, coughing)
  • a follow-up plan and clear guidance on when to get in touch earlier
Discreet
Clear
Fast

Why come for an examination at Cito Polyclinic?

Pelvic organ prolapse is a sensitive topic - that is why discretion, experience and a realistic plan are important. Our team provides you with: 

  • a discreet and gentle approach during the examination
  • an individual plan (not every patient is a candidate for the same treatment)
  • conservative options and a surgical solution when needed
  • clear instructions and monitoring

A feeling of heaviness or a bulge in the vagina?

You don't have to suffer - there are effective options that significantly make everyday life easier.

Price of a pelvic organ prolapse examination

The price at Cito Polyclinic is 40€. Please bear in mind that additional diagnostic tests, such as a Pap test and an ultrasound examination, are not included in this price and are charged separately according to the current price list. 

You can get the first available appointment straight away by phone on +385 21 457 800 or by sending a short message via the contact form.

  View the full price list

Doctors

Our team of expert physicians

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this service

What are the symptoms of prolapse and how is the diagnosis made?

A feeling of descent, pressure, difficult urination/defecation and vaginal protrusion. The diagnosis is clinical, with ultrasound and urodynamic tests as needed.

What are the treatment options (conservative, pessary, surgical)?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy, pessary therapy and surgical corrections (native tissue or mesh) depending on the degree and symptoms.

When is surgical treatment needed and what are the methods?

For pronounced symptoms or failure of conservative measures; methods include vaginal and abdominal (laparoscopic) approaches.

How to prevent worsening and reduce prolapse symptoms?

Regular pelvic floor exercises, body weight management, treatment of cough/constipation and avoiding heavy lifting.

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