The effect of physical activity on pelvic organ prolapse

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine whether pelvic organ prolapse increases after physical activity. Prospective observational study. St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK. Women undergoing surgery for pelvic organ prolapse. Fifty-four women were recruited to the study. Symptoms and POPQ findings were assessed after a period of prescribed activity and overnight bedrest. Primary outcome was an increase in Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POPQ) measurements with activity. Secondary outcomes were association of symptoms or quality-of-life scores (Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory [PFDI] and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire [PFIQ]) with an increase in POPQ measurements. There was a significant increase in POPQ stage and five vaginal parameters (Aa, Ba, C, Ap and Bp) with physical activity (P < 0.001). Reported symptoms, higher PFDI and PFIQ scores and higher individual symptom bother scores were not more common in the women with greater pelvic organ descent (measured by the POPQ system) following physical activity. Greater pelvic organ prolapse was found on POPQ examination following physical activity, but this was not associated with worsening of symptoms and greater impairment of quality of life.