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Open Access 01-09-2009 | Original Article

The prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse symptoms and signs and their relation with bladder and bowel disorders in a general female population

Authors: Marijke C. Ph. Slieker-ten Hove, Annelies L. Pool-Goudzwaard, Marinus J. C. Eijkemans, Regine P. M. Steegers-Theunissen, Curt W. Burger, Mark E. Vierhout

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 9/2009

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

In selected populations, pelvic organ prolapse (POP) was associated with bladder/bowel symptoms, but data on the general female population are lacking. Our aim was to obtain normative data on the prevalence of POP and pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) symptoms and signs and to identify associations.

Methods

Validated questionnaires on POP and PFD (urogenital distress inventory, (UDI) and defaecation distress inventory (DDI)) were sent to a general population of 2,979 women (aged 45–85 years). Data were analysed using the Kruskal–Wallis test, chi square test and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.

Results

Response rate was 62.7%. Associations between POP stage and parity (0.002) and vaginal bulging (<0.001) are significant. Anatomical locations of POP and PFD symptoms correlated significantly with incontinence of flatus, feeling anal prolapse, manual evacuation of stool, vaginal bulging, constipation and pain during faecal urge (p ≤ 0.005).

Conclusions

Strategies should be developed to alleviate obstructive bowel disorders associated with POP.

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Title: The prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse symptoms and signs and their relation with bladder and bowel disorders in a general female population
Authors: Marijke C. Ph. Slieker-ten Hove
Annelies L. Pool-Goudzwaard
Marinus J. C. Eijkemans
Regine P. M. Steegers-Theunissen
Curt W. Burger
Mark E. Vierhout
Publication date: 01-09-2009
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 9/2009
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-009-0902-1

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse symptoms and signs and their relation with bladder and bowel disorders in a general female population

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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