Vaginal Prolapse

Vaginal prolapse, or vaginal vault prolapse, occurs when the uppermost part of the vagina falls or sags down into the vaginal canal. When the top of the vagina drops in this manner, it not only causes the vagina to lose its shape, but it also may weaken and collapse the vaginal walls. It is possible to have part of the vagina prolapse, or protrude, from the vagina's opening. Vaginal prolapse is similar to and can happen in conjunction with uterine prolapse (or pelvic organ prolapse). This occurs when the vaginal tissues, muscles, and ligaments surrounding the uterus weaken and collapse, causing the uterus to protrude into the vagina. Both uterine and vaginal prolapse also can accompany other related prolapse conditions, including small bowel prolapse (enterocele), uretha prolapse (urethrocele), prolapse of the bladder (cystocele), and rectal prolapse (rectocele).

These types of conditions are common. Nearly 40 percent of women will experience some form of pelvic organ prolapse, including vaginal prolapse. Prolapse most often occurs in women beyond the age of 40 and in relation to or following childbirth, menopause, or a hysterectomy. In approximately 10 percent of women, vaginal prolapse occurs following a hysterectomy, or removal of the uterus. Surgery may be required to repair a vaginal prolapse.