Recurrent pelvic organ prolapse: International Urogynecological Association Research and Development Committee opinion

Introduction and hypothesis This committee opinion paper summarizes available evidence about recurrent pelvic organ prolapse (POP) to provide guidance on management. Method A working subcommittee from the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) Research and Development Committee was formed. The literature regarding recurrent POP was reviewed and summarized by individual members of the subcommittee. Recommendations were graded according to the 2009 Oxford Levels of Evidence. The summary was reviewed by the Committee. Results There is no agreed definition for recurrent POP and evidence in relation to its evaluation and management is limited. Conclusion The assessment of recurrent POP should entail looking for possible reason(s) for failure, including persistent and/or new risk factors, detection of all pelvic floor defects and checking for complications of previous surgery. The management requires individual evaluation of the risks and benefits of different options and appropriate patient counseling. There is an urgent need for an agreed definition and further research into all aspects of recurrent POP.