Pathophysiology of pelvic organ prolapse

Abstract

Pelvic organ prolapse is usually caused by weakness of the pelvic diaphragm. Descent of the pelvic diaphragm places stress on the endopelvic connective tissue support system. Subsequent increases in intra-abdominal pressure result in prolapse. In the majority of cases, labor and childbirth are thought to be the primary factors responsible for pelvic neuropathies and tissue damage that predispose to the development of POP. Certain connective tissue defects, congenital defects, and operative procedures also contribute to pelvic support defects.