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Non-surgical and Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse in the Older Woman

  • Geriatric Urology (H Richter, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Geriatrics Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition that can adversely affect quality of life in older women. With the current trend in longevity, the number of women with this problem will exceed the availability of subspecialists in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. The purpose of this paper is to aid primary care physicians, geriatricians, and general gynecologists in the evaluation, referral, and treatment of women with POP. Women can be quickly evaluated and offered therapy prior to referral to a subspecialist.

Recent Findings

Newer trends include emphasis on the use of pelvic muscle exercise, pessaries, and vaginal surgery. Trends away from the use of mesh and the role of newer technologies like robotic surgery will be discussed.

Summary

Older women with prolapse should be evaluated with emphasis on functional status and individualized assessment of risks, benefits, and alternatives of therapies, as in other areas of geriatric medicine.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Lincoln Medical Center, NY Health & Hospitals, Bronx, NY, USA

    Carmen J. Sultana

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Correspondence to Carmen J. Sultana.

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Carmen Sultana declares no conflict of interest.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Geriatric Urology

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Sultana, C.J. Non-surgical and Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse in the Older Woman. Curr Geri Rep 6, 81–89 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13670-017-0203-3

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