Pelvic Prolapse Surgery: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Pelvic Prolapse Surgery?
A gynecologist, a doctor for the female reproductive system, usually does pelvic prolapse surgery. Talk with your doctor about which type of surgery is best for you. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Pelvic organ prolapse is also called POP. It happens when tissue and muscles can no longer support the pelvic organs and they drop down. The pelvic organs include the vagina, uterus, bladder, urethra, and rectum. The uterus is also called the womb. Obliterative surgery narrows or closes off the vagina to support the organs that dropped. Vaginal sex is not possible after this procedure. Reconstructive surgery tries to put organs back where they were. Reconstructive surgery is the most common type of pelvic organ prolapse surgery.
Why a doctor might recommend it
You may need treatment if POP symptoms get in the way of normal activities. Nonsurgical treatments are usually tried first. One option is a pessary. It is a removable device placed in the vagina to support the organs that dropped. Surgery may be an option if these do not work and your symptoms are severe.
How to prepare
Planning for surgery can include the following.
- If you want to get pregnant later, ideally you should delay surgery until your family is complete.
- Surgery may be more risky if you smoke.
- Heart disease or breathing problems can also make surgery more risky.
- Talk with your surgeon about the risks and benefits of mesh.
What happens during it
Surgery for POP can be done through the vagina or the abdomen. Some reconstructive surgeries use a cut in the vagina. Others use a cut in the abdomen or laparoscopy. Laparoscopy uses a thin, lighted telescope. It goes through a small cut in the abdomen so the surgeon can see the pelvic organs. Mesh is used in some types of reconstructive surgery. It reinforces or supports organs that dropped.
Recovery
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery. You usually need to take a few weeks off from work. For the first few weeks, you should avoid vigorous exercise, lifting, and straining. You should also avoid sex for several weeks after surgery. Surgery through the vagina may take less time than surgery through a cut in the abdomen. Recovery is usually shorter.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop, trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, or fainting.
Risks and side effects
There is no guarantee that any treatment, including surgery, will relieve all of your symptoms. New problems may start after surgery, such as pain during sex, pelvic pain, or leaking urine. With a cut in the abdomen, there is a risk of damage to the intestines. After surgery with mesh in the abdomen, there is a small risk of mesh erosion. Erosion means the mesh wears through the tissues into the vagina. Mesh placed through the vagina has a high risk of severe complications. These include mesh erosion, pain, infection, and bladder or bowel injury. POP can be treated successfully without mesh in many cases. If you had mesh surgery through the vagina, tell your doctor about pelvic or groin pain or pain during sex.
Who performs it
A gynecologist performs this surgery.
Common questions
Do I need surgery for pelvic organ prolapse?
No, not everyone with pelvic organ prolapse needs surgery. Nonsurgical treatments are usually tried first.
Will surgery fix all of my symptoms?
Not always. No treatment, including surgery, is guaranteed to relieve all of your symptoms.
Can prolapse come back after surgery?
Yes, prolapse can come back after surgery. Some women may need to have the treatment again in the future. If you have surgery at a young age, prolapse may come back and need more treatment.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists - Surgery for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- MedlinePlus - Uterine prolapse
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
