In plain words
POP-Q stands for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification. It is a way for a clinician to measure how far the bladder, uterus, and bowel have dropped inside the vagina. The clinician measures points in centimeters, and the result is given as a stage from 0, meaning none, to IV, meaning complete. The measurements are taken with you lying back on an exam table and bearing down gently. The stage describes the exam, not how much it bothers you. Many people with a low stage have few symptoms, and some with higher stages feel fine. Ask your provider what your stage means for your daily life.
The deeper version
POP-Q, the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system, is a standardized clinical staging that records measurements at defined points relative to the hymen, with stages 0 through IV derived from the position of the most distal point (Bump et al., 1996). It is the standard reference for research and clinical reporting and complements symptom-based questionnaires such as the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory. Stage is an anatomic description and correlates imperfectly with symptoms, and assessment usually combines the staging with history and examination of pelvic floor function. Interobserver variability exists, and training improves reproducibility.
Where it comes up
- Prolapse: heaviness, bulging, and what helpsPostpartum: Your Body
- Your pelvic floor after birthPostpartum: Your Body
- Returning to exercisePostpartum: Your Body
- Belly bindingNourishment and Traditions
- The six-week checkup (and why it isn't enough)Postpartum: Your Body
What mothers here say about POP-Q
No one has posted under this term yet.
Sources
- Bump RC et al. — The standardization of terminology of female pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic floor dysfunction. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1996