Publication:

Pelvic organ prolapse quantification system: to valsalva or not to valsalva while measuring genital hiatus (GH) and perineal body (PB)

Background It is a study to determine whether or not, the widening of GH and PB with valsalva is evidence of pelvic floor dysfunction, and by the logic should the values in POPQ staging, be taken at valsalva or at rest.

Methods Prospective 2 arm cohort study. However, the analysis of various risk factors for prolapse was done in a case control study manner.

Results As compared to women without prolapse, in patients with POP, the dimensions of GH and PB are higher. Also, the increase in their dimensions with valsalva is more in prolapse cases. So valsalving while measurement of GH and PB would give a better idea of pelvic floor dysfunction.

Conclusions The study shows association between the severity of urinary problems and degree of prolapse. Measurements of POPQ when taken during valsalva, tend to give a better picture of levator dysfunction in prolapse patients.