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International Urogynecology Journal
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal 10/2008

01-10-2008 | Current Opinion/Update

The aetiology of prolapse

Author: H. P. Dietz

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 10/2008

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Abstract

Female pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition that is said to be multifactorial in aetiology. While a number of risk factors such as vaginal childbirth, obesity and ageing are commonly accepted, it is not clear as to how these risk factors affect the development of prolapse—that is, which pathophysiologic mechanisms are responsible for disease manifestation. Measures used in epidemiological studies, such as presentation for surgical treatment, are generally confounded by other conditions, and evidence is lacking for some of the most frequently quoted aetiological factors. In this paper, I will try to summarise the available evidence in order to separate hearsay and hypothesis from available research findings and to suggest a way forward for diagnosis and treatment.
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Metadata
Title
The aetiology of prolapse
Author
H. P. Dietz
Publication date
01-10-2008
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 10/2008
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-008-0695-7

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