Marsha Guess, MD, Assistant Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Services, Yale University, discusses pelvic organ prolapse in relation to vaginal birth versus cesarean section and summarizes that although studies have shown a decreased rate of pelvic organ prolapse in patients undergoing Cesarean section, it would be optimal to screen those patients at risk before recommending all women undergo cesarean delivery.

Summary:
1. Women who undergo Cesarean section have a decreased rate of pelvic organ prolapse according to some study findings.
2. The optimal management goal is to identify those women at risk before mandating Cesarean section in all patients.

References and Resources:
Patel DA, Xu X, Thomason AD, Ransom SB, Ivy JS, DeLancey JO. Childbirth and pelvic floor dysfunction: an epidemiologic approach to the assessment of prevention opportunities at delivery. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Jul;195(1):23-8. Epub 2006 Mar 30.

Dietz HP, Wilson PD. Childbirth and pelvic floor trauma. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2005 Dec;19(6):913-24. Epub 2005 Sep 22. Review.

Sponsored by The Doctor’s Channel