How to determine the severity of vaginal wall prolapse
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
The severity of vaginal wall prolapse is generally assessed comprehensively based on factors such as the location and size of the protrusion, impact on daily activities, abnormalities in urinary function, associated symptoms, and gynecological examination findings. In mild cases, the prolapse occurs only when abdominal pressure increases and can be reduced with rest; in moderate cases, the prolapse appears when standing and requires manual assistance to reduce; in severe cases, the prolapse is persistent and cannot be reduced.
To assess the severity of vaginal wall prolapse, a comprehensive evaluation is generally made based on the location and size of the protrusion, impact on daily activities, urinary dysfunction, associated symptoms, and gynecological examination findings. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Location and size of the protrusion: In mild cases, the tissue bulges only when abdominal pressure increases (e.g., coughing or lifting) and can be reduced with rest; in moderate cases, the tissue protrudes upon standing and requires manual assistance to be pushed back; in severe cases, the tissue remains continuously prolapsed and cannot be reduced.
2. Impact on daily activities: Mild cases have no effect on daily life, with slight heaviness only after strenuous exercise; moderate cases experience a sensation of pelvic pressure during routine activities, which worsens with prolonged standing or walking; severe cases are limited in activity and may feel foreign body sensation or pain even while lying down.
3. Urinary dysfunction: Mild cases may occasionally experience difficulty urinating; moderate cases often suffer from urinary frequency, urgency, and incomplete bladder emptying, sometimes requiring changes in body position to urinate; severe cases may develop urinary incontinence or urinary retention, necessitating medical intervention.
4. Associated symptoms: Mild cases typically have no obvious symptoms or only minor discomfort in the vulva; moderate cases may experience pain from friction, increased vaginal discharge, and occasional bleeding; severe cases are prone to ulceration and infection, accompanied by lower abdominal pressure, backache, and impaired sexual function.
5. Gynecological examination findings: Physicians classify the severity based on the distance between the prolapsed tissue and the hymenal edge—mild if it does not extend beyond the hymen, moderate if it extends beyond but does not fully protrude, and severe if it completely protrudes outside the vaginal opening.
Once vaginal wall prolapse is detected, prompt medical evaluation is recommended to determine its severity. Mild cases may benefit from Kegel exercises, while moderate to severe cases should follow medical advice for treatment. Daily habits such as avoiding heavy lifting and constipation should be maintained to minimize abdominal pressure and support pelvic floor muscle recovery.
