Prevalence and risk factors of genital prolapse. A multicenter study

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper is to describe the prevalence of genetal prolapse and its risk factors in semi urban and rural communities. We ultimately hope to heighten the attention of providers of care and program managers to the high prevalence of genital prolapse despite the presumed improved access to care, availability of well-trained staff and high rates of hospital deliveries.

METHODS: This study was carried out in Giza, Egypt and Ein El-Basha, Jordan in 1997. Presence or absence of genital prolapse was assessed using well-trained physicians who performed full clinical assessment including vaginal examination.

RESULTS: The study results showed that the prevalence in Egypt was 56.3% and in Jordan 34.1%; that age and parity remain the most predictive factors for the prevalence of prolapse despite controlling other factors; and that women suffer from accompanying symptoms including feeling of bulge, backaches, vaginal discharge, post coital discomfort and bleeding.

CONCLUSION: We believe that women do not have to suffer from these morbid conditions when known preventive interventions exist. Application of standards of care along with designed health education programs are expected to reduce women's suffering. Cost effectiveness studies that show the price tag of surgical intervention in comparison to preventive activities are badly needed.