Physiotherapy following pelvic organ prolapse surgery: Addressing the unmet needs

Abstract

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP), affects a significant proportion of women, particularly in low and middle-income countries. In the Eastern Mediterranean region, it has a prevalence of 39%,1 highlighting the scope of the problem and the likely healthcare burden it imposes. With regional patterns of persistently high fertility levels and large family sizes, the number of affected women is also expected to increase in the future. POP is not only an anatomical disorder, but it also has significant functional and psychosocial consequences. Women with POP frequently report symptoms such as pelvic pressure, vaginal bulging, urinary dysfunction, bowel disturbances, and sexual difficulties. These symptoms can impair quality of life, influencing daily activities, productivity, and social participation. In low- and middleincome countries, women may delay seeking medical attention due to stigma, limited access to specialized care, or lack of awareness regarding treatment options. This is the reason why a large proportion of cases remain underreported and untreated, which further contributes to the overall disease burden.