The Pelvic Organ Prolapse Symptom Score (POP-SS)

Assessment tool to measure symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse

Background

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP), a common female condition, is the symptomatic descent of one or more of the anterior vaginal wall, posterior vaginal wall, the uterus (cervix), or the apex of the vagina from the normal anatomical position [1]. Prolapse is strongly associated with childbirth, ageing and the menopause.  Women with prolapse present with a variety of symptoms (vaginal, bladder, bowel, back, abdominal and sexual). Some of these symptoms are specifically associated with the descending pelvic organs protruding into the vaginal canal, for example feeling of a bulge or something coming down. Others, such as urinary and bowel problems, can co-exist and may be related to or be independent of the prolapse. It is important in research and clinical practice that we quantify such symptoms using standardised instruments with known psychometric properties.

Further information