Can Pelvic Organ Prolapse Be Repaired More Than Once?

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition that affects many women, particularly after childbirth or as they age. While surgery can be an effective treatment, it’s not uncommon for the prolapse to recur or for a different type of prolapse to develop after the initial procedure. In fact, studies show that around a third of women who undergo prolapse surgery will need more than one operation.

Prolapse Surgery Success Rates

Researchers have found that the chances of a prolapse returning or a new type of prolapse developing after surgery can be as high as 25-30%. This means that for every 100 women who have prolapse surgery, 25-30 of them may need additional procedures in the future.
The reasons for this relatively high recurrence rate are not fully understood, but they may be related to the underlying weaknesses in the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues that led to the initial prolapse. Additionally, factors like obesity, chronic coughing, and heavy lifting can contribute to the development of new or recurring prolapses.

Repairing Prolapse Multiple Times

While the prospect of needing multiple surgeries may be daunting, it’s important to note that prolapse can often be successfully repaired more than once. Experienced urogynecologists and pelvic floor specialists are skilled at performing these procedures and can help women explore their options for managing recurrent or new prolapses.
In some cases, a different surgical approach may be recommended for the second or third procedure, such as using synthetic mesh to provide additional support to the pelvic organs. In other cases, a combination of surgical and non-surgical treatments, such as pelvic floor physical therapy, may be the best course of action.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo additional prolapse surgery will depend on the individual patient’s symptoms, overall health, and personal preferences. It’s important for women to have open and honest discussions with their healthcare providers about the risks, benefits, and long-term expectations for prolapse treatment.