Gynaecology, by video or in person
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Womb Prolapse)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Womb Prolapse)
- A feeling of heaviness or dragging in the vagina or lower tummy, worse at the end of the day
- A bulge or lump in or coming out of the vagina
- Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel, or needing to push the bulge back to do so
- Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze or lift
- Discomfort or numbness during sex
Pelvic organ prolapse is when one or more of the organs in the pelvis, the womb, the bladder or the bowel, slips down from its normal place and bulges into the vagina. It happens when the muscles and tissues that hold them up are weakened, most often by pregnancy and vaginal birth, and later by the menopause, heavy lifting, long-term coughing, constipation and being overweight. Many women in Nigeria carry heavy loads and have had several births, and many feel too embarrassed to mention a prolapse. It is common, it is not dangerous in most cases, and it can be treated. Treatment depends on how much it bothers you, not just on how far the organs have dropped.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A feeling of heaviness or dragging in the vagina or lower tummy, worse at the end of the day
- A bulge or lump in or coming out of the vagina
- Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel, or needing to push the bulge back to do so
- Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze or lift
- Discomfort or numbness during sex
- Some women have no symptoms and it is found at an examination
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now if you cannot pass urine at all, or if a prolapse that is outside the vagina cannot be pushed back and becomes very painful, dark or bleeds. See a gynaecologist for any bulge or heaviness in the vagina. A video consultation is a reasonable first step: the gynaecologist can take the history, start pelvic floor exercises and arrange the examination that confirms which organs are involved.
Treatment options
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises, ideally taught by a physiotherapist, for at least four months
- Losing weight, treating constipation and a chronic cough, and avoiding heavy lifting
- Vaginal oestrogen cream after the menopause
- A vaginal pessary, a soft device that holds the organs up, changed or cleaned regularly
- Surgery to repair the vaginal walls, remove the womb through the vagina, or lift the top of the vagina (sacrocolpopexy)
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Is a prolapse dangerous?
Usually not. It can be uncomfortable and affect daily life, but it is rarely an emergency. The exceptions are being unable to pass urine and a bulge that is stuck outside and very painful.
Do I need surgery?
Not always. Many women manage well with exercises or a pessary. Surgery is for a prolapse that bothers you despite these, or when you would rather not use a pessary.
Can I still have children?
Yes, but surgery is usually delayed until you have finished having children, because a later pregnancy and birth can undo the repair.
Need Help?
A women's health specialist on a video call, who plans the tests and treatment and says when you need to be examined in person.
See a gynaecologist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified gynaecology specialist near you.
Gynaecology in Lagos →Gynaecology in Abuja →Gynaecology in Port Harcourt →Gynaecology in Jos →Gynaecology in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Pelvic organ prolapse. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 3 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.