Risk factors for prolapse

The aetiology of prolapse may be multifactorial. Possible risk factors include pregnancy, vaginal delivery, connective tissue disorders, de­nervation or weakness of the pelvic floor, increased body mass index (BMI), smoking, menopause, previous hysterectomy, and chronic increase in intra-abdominal pressure (e.g. chronic straining with constipation).

The risk of POP increases with the number of vaginal deliveries, as depicted in Table 56.1 (7).