Genital prolapse: symptoms, causes, and treatments

Genital prolapse is defined as the descent or displacement of the vaginal walls, rectum, uterus, bladder, or all of these structures toward the vulva. According to Dr. Susana Sánchez Garay of Clínica Corachan, this occurs when the supporting structures of these organs fail.

While the condition rarely threatens life, it significantly impacts quality of life and body perception. Incidence tends to increase with age, peaking between 70 and 79 years old. Statistics indicate that approximately 11% of women aged 80 will require surgery for prolapse, and 30% of those who have undergone surgery may require re-intervention.

Risk factors include vaginal childbirth, with over 50% of women who have given birth vaginally experiencing prolapse, whether symptomatic or not. Additionally, women who have undergone a hysterectomy face a higher risk. Only about 10% to 20% of patients experience active symptoms, which can include a sensation of weight due to the displacement of organs.