Self‐reported natural history of recurrent prolapse among women presenting to a tertiary care center

Abstract

ObjectiveTo describe the characteristics of recurrent pelvic organ prolapse (POP).MethodsA convenience sample of patients presenting with recurrent POP symptoms between October 2007 and February 2010 completed questionnaires. The survey focused on timing of recurrence(s), symptoms, and demographics.ResultsNinety‐seven women completed questionnaires. Thirty‐four (35.1%) had undergone multiple prior treatments. Overall, 23 of 76 (30.3%) women had not informed their surgeon of the recurrence. Twenty‐seven of 59 (45.8%) women reported that their symptoms were the same as before treatment, whereas 23 of 59 (39.0%) reported more severe symptoms. POP was considered to be persistent if symptoms returned within 3 months, and recurrent if symptom relief exceeded 3 months. After primary surgery, 28 of 79 (35.4%) cases were considered to be persistent, whereas 51 (64.6%) cases were recurrent. Similar percentages were seen after second and third treatments.ConclusionOverall, 35% of participants experienced early return of symptoms. Almost one‐third of participants had not informed their surgeon of the recurrence, indicating that there may not be an accurate self‐assessment of outcome in the absence of careful follow‐up.