Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Women Aged ≤30: Frequency, Predisposing Factors, and Clinical Outcomes
Abstract
Objective: To determine the frequency, associated risk factors and clinical outcomes of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) among women aged ≤30 years.
Methodology: The cross-sectional research was carried out at the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Ward-08, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, based on the medical records of the period between January 2022 and December 2024.A total of 138 women diagnosed with POP with complete demographic and clinical information available were included in the study.Information was extracted on the age, obstetric history, BMI status, comorbidities, lifestyle factors, and management received.Chi-square tests were used to examine the associations between POP and potential determinants.A regression test (logistic regression [univariate and multivariate]) was conducted to determine independent predictors.
Results: Of 138 women presenting with POP, 35 (25.4%) were aged ≤30 years and 103 (74.6%) were older. Most of them were multiparous (88.4% delivered vaginally), and 27.5% of them had a history of instrumental delivery. The intervals between pregnancies were short (85.5%), and the majority of the women were overweight/obese (84.8%). Significant associations were found between POP and mode of delivery (p = 0.001), instrumental delivery (p < 0.001), and diabetes mellitus (p < 0.001). The multivariate analysis proved instrumental delivery to be an independent predictor (OR = 0.047: 95% CI = 0.003-0.806). The management involved pessary placement (13.8) or surgery (86.2) with vaginal hysterectomy being the most frequent (58). In 98.6% of cases, clinical improvement was noted.
Conclusion: POP among women ≤30 years was uncommon but notable. Instrumental delivery emerged as a significant predictor, emphasizing the need for safer obstetric practices and early pelvic floor assessment. Strengthened obstetric care and preventive strategies may reduce long-term POP burden in young women.
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