The Effect of Physical Activity on Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Abstract

Previous studies have suggested that prolonged standing and lifting and other physical activity commonly worsen symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. Epidemiological data suggest physical exertion may increase the need for prolapse surgery. This prospective observational study assessed whether physical activity was associated with pelvic organ prolapse in a study population of 54 women volunteers admitted the night before undergoing prolapse surgery. Symptoms and signs of pelvic organ prolapse were assessed using the validated Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POPQ) system to measure the extent of pelvic organ decent after a period of prescribed activity and overnight bed rest. Participants also completed the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire to investigate the association of symptoms and quality-of-life scores with an increase in POPQ measurements after physical activity. A significant association was found between physical activity and POPQ stage and 5 vaginal parameters (Aa, Ba, C, Ap, and Bp) (P for all <0.001). However, worsening of symptoms, higher Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire scores, and higher individual symptom bother scores were not associated with the POPQ findings of greater prolapse after exertion. These findings show that increased pelvic organ prolapse occurs after exertion, but the data show no association of the prolapse with worsening symptoms and increased impairment of quality of life.