OCCURRENCE OF PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE IN WOMEN: PREVALENCE, CONTRIBUTING FACTORS, AND IMPACT ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) stands as a prevalent health concern among women worldwide, characterized by the descent or herniation of pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum, into the vaginal canal. Objective: The primary aim of the study is to find the occurrence of pelvic organ prolapse in women and its prevalence, contributing factors, and impact on quality of life. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Catchment areas of Rural Health Centres Kangra and Kot Najibullah, District Haripur, Pakistan, from 1st November 2022 to 31st November 2023. Data was collected from 3284 women to find the pelvic organ prolapse in women and its prevalence, contributing factors, and impact on quality of life. The study comprised females diagnosed with various stages and types of POP, confirmed through clinical examinations, imaging studies, and documented medical history. Data was collected from 3284 female patients. The mean age of the patients was 54.01 ± 7.61 years. 60% of females are in the Pre-menopausal stage and 40% in the Post-menopausal stage. In managing Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP), treatment modalities varied in utilization and exhibited distinct outcomes. Non-surgical interventions were employed in 30% of cases, resulting in a notable 70% relief in symptoms and a high patient satisfaction rate of 65%. It is concluded that this is a substantial problem for the women affected, yet the majority of affected women did not seek medical care. Pelvic organ prolapse is highly prevalent in rural Pakistan, impacts women’s everyday lives, and remains mainly untreated.