Is surgery always necessary to treat a prolapse?

Severe prolapse is usually most effectively treated by surgery. For women who wish to avoid, or at least delay surgery, a pessary fitted by a health-care professional may be a useful option. Kegels and other exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles may help in cases of mild prolapse, but they will not correct a serious prolapse.

Is a hysterectomy always a necessary part of prolapse surgery?

No, a hysterectomy is often unnecessary, unless the uterus is a significant part of the prolapse. Whether or not you will need a hysterectomy depends on the type of prolapse and its severity. For mild cases of prolapse, a hysterectomy should not be necessary, nor is it a necessary part of treating a cystocele, entrocele or rectocele. Although a hysterectomy was once a standard part of most prolapse surgeries, increasing numbers of surgeons are now repairing cystoceles, entroceles and rectoceles without removing the uterus. Discuss your options with your physician.

Can women give birth after prolapse surgery?

Yes. If a hysterectomy has not been done and you are still fertile, then you can become pregnant. It is safe to carry the pregnancy to full term. A cesarean section is usually recommended for the birth. Pregnancy, however, may impact upon the long-term success of the prolapse surgery. For this reason, it is usually recommended that women delay surgery to correct prolapse until their childbearing is complete.

Is vaginal bleeding a sign of prolapse?

A pelvic prolapse does not usually cause vaginal bleeding. However, in some cases, women may be unaware of their condition until the prolapse is severe, and standing or other physical activity makes vaginal tissue protrude through the vaginal opening. When this vaginal tissue rubs against a woman's clothing, it may become irritated and bleed. In this situation, blood on the underwear or other evidence of vaginal bleeding, may be the first sign of a prolapse.