Diagnosis of pelvic organ prolapse in women: current capabilities and prospects

Abstract

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition that significantly impairs women’s quality of life due to a combination of vaginal, urological, colorectal, and sexual symptoms. Despite its high prevalence, early diagnosis of POP remains challenging owing to the discrepancy between subjective symptoms and the anatomical severity of the disease, as well as the lack of a unified diagnostic algorithm. The aim of this review was to systematize current diagnostic methods for POP in women and evaluate their clinical significance. This analytical review of the literature published between 2020 and 2025 was conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE and eLibrary (RSCI) databases. The analysis included clinical guidelines, systematic reviews, and original studies focusing on clinical, instrumental, and digital diagnostic modalities for POP. It was demonstrated that contemporary diagnosis of POP should rely on a comprehensive approach that integrates a structured symptom assessment, validated questionnaires, standardized clinical staging via the POP-Q system, and pelvic floor imaging. Of particular importance are transperineal ultrasound in various modes and magnetic resonance imaging, which allow for the evaluation of both anatomical and functional changes during stress maneuvers. While magnetic resonance imaging is highly informative in complex multicompartment cases and for preoperative anatomical definition, ultrasound remains a more accessible, cost-effective, non-invasive, and real-time tool. Thus, the integrated use of clinical and instrumental methods enhances the accuracy of POP detection, improves grading assessment for early and more objective diagnosis, and optimizes management strategies.