Can prolapse affect future pregnancies?
In most cases, pelvic organ prolapse does not prevent future pregnancies. However, existing prolapse may worsen with additional pregnancies and may need closer monitoring or management.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Women with prolapse can usually conceive and carry a pregnancy to term, but should receive specialist preconception and antenatal care. Symptoms of prolapse may become more pronounced during pregnancy due to increased abdominal pressure. Non-surgical treatments like pessaries and physiotherapy may be used to support pelvic organs during pregnancy. Surgery for prolapse is usually delayed until after childbearing is complete. (NHS: Prolapse and pregnancy | NICE NG123)
Clinical Context
Women with a history of prolapse should have consultant-led antenatal care and discuss optimal timing for any planned prolapse surgery in relation to pregnancy plans.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NHS and NICE recommend multidisciplinary input for women with prolapse planning further pregnancies. (NICE NG123)