Pelvic Organ Prolapse

In short: Pelvic organ prolapse is the bladder, uterus, vagina or rectum dropping from its normal position, felt as a vaginal bulge or pelvic pressure. Dr. Alexandra Tabakin, a urologist and fellowship-trained urogynecologist in New Brunswick, NJ, diagnoses prolapse with a history and pelvic exam and offers pelvic floor therapy and pessaries as well as vaginal and robotic surgery.

Pelvic organ prolapse: introduction

What is pelvic organ prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse refers to any of the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, vagina or rectum) dropping from their normal position and causing pressure or creating a vaginal bulge.

What are symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse?

Many women experience no symptoms, while others may experience some of the following, which tend to progress very gradually:

• A bulge near the opening of the vagina
• Pressure or heavy sensation in the vagina
• A feeling of fullness in your lower belly or of "sitting on a ball"
• Difficult or strained bowel movements
• Vaginal dryness or irritation and pain with intercourse
• Difficulty starting to urinate, frequent urination or leaking of urine
• Irregular spotting or bleeding from the vagina
• Lower back discomfort

What causes pelvic organ prolapse?

While women of all ages may be affected by pelvic organ prolapse, it is more common in older women. Certain factors may increase your risk, including:

• Pregnancy and childbirth (especially delivery of large babies)
• Chronic cough
• Chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements
• Frequent heavy lifting
• Menopause
• Obesity
• Connective tissue disorders
• Prior pelvic surgery/hysterectomy

How is pelvic organ prolapse diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with your medical history and a physical exam of your pelvic organs. Some additional tests may be necessary (including bladder function tests, pelvic floor strength tests, MRI or ultrasound) to help determine the exact type of prolapse.

How is pelvic organ prolapse treated?

The treatment for pelvic organ prolapse depends on your type of prolapse, severity of symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals. There are non-surgical and surgical options.

Pelvic organ prolapse: treatment options

Learn more from the American Urogynecologic Society patient site, Voices for PFD: Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

Page updated October 2026.

Related pages: Prolapse Surgery · Robotic Surgery · Vaginal Surgery