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Review the following "Questions to Ask" about pelvic organ prolapse (POP) so you're prepared to discuss this important health issue with your health care professional.

1. If I have stress incontinence, does that mean I have pelvic organ prolapse (POP)?

   No, you can have stress incontinence without having POP. However, stress incontinence is usually related to some weakness in the pelvic floor. It often occurs in conjunction with POP.

2. My doctor says I have some bladder prolapse, but I don't have any symptoms. How is that possible?

   Pelvic organ prolapse can be mild to severe and often doesn't have any symptoms. If you don't have any symptoms, you don't have to do anything if you don't want to, although incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your daily routine to strengthen your pelvic region is a good idea.

3. I've been diagnosed with POP. Do I need surgery?

   That depends on your personal condition. If you don't have any symptoms, and your condition is manageable with lifestyle changes, then you don't need surgery. Surgery is not foolproof; the prolapse could recur. So try to avoid surgery until it is absolutely necessary.

4. I'm not sure if I'm doing Kegel exercises properly. How can I tell?

   A physical therapist is your best option when it comes to ensuring that you're doing Kegels properly. Physical therapists can give you vaginal cones that you place in your vagina. The squeezing pressure you use to keep the cone in the vagina teaches you which muscles to use for Kegels. Biofeedback can also be used to teach you which muscles to exercise. Talk to your health care practitioner about a referral to a physical therapist.

5. I think I might have vaginal prolapse. Which doctor should I see?

   While your gynecologist can most likely manage your condition, you might also consider seeing a urogynecologist, a gynecologist who specializes in the care of women with pelvic floor dysfunction.

6. What is the best type of surgery for POP?

   Again, that depends on your specific situation and your surgeon's comfort level with various surgical techniques. Studies find that a form of surgery that uses a synthetic mesh to connect and support the vagina to the tailbone works best, particularly if it is performed laparoscopically, or through small incisions in the abdomen, rather than through an abdominal incision.

7. Is there any way to prevent POP?

   Maintaining a healthy weight is important, since there is evidence that being overweight significantly increases your risk of POP. Also, straining when you go to the bathroom, lifting heavy items and chronic cough can contribute to POP.

8. What are the risks involved in not repairing POP?

   Generally, none. POP won't shorten your life or lead to other health conditions. In some situations, the prolapsed organs can irritate the vaginal wall, creating ulcers. The greatest risk is that it creates genital, urinary and rectal problems that significantly affect your quality of life.