Although POP is one of the most common indications for a gynaecological operation, there are relatively few studies on incidence and prevalence of POP.³ A prevalence of symptomatic POP between 4-12% of all women has been reported for Australia and Sweden.^4,5 One of the few population studies shows that about 40% of women have a stage 2 or more prolapse.⁶ The probability that a prolapse causes serious discomfort is much lower (11%). A large US study shows a prevalence of 14.2% in all women, resp 41% for women between 50-79 years of age.⁷

A review of studies in developing countries demonstrates a higher mean prevalence of of POP 19.7% in these countries.⁸ As studies have major differences in design, definitions and methods, the value of comparison of results is limited. In a systematic review is stated that the low and lower income countries have almost twice the burden of POP than countries of the higher economy.²⁸ Future POP incidence, prevalence, and natural history studies should include non-white women from LMICs and should combine pelvic examination data with validated patient-reported outcome measures when feasible.⁴¹ Anticipated future service needs differ globally, with a greater demand for POP treatment services in well-resourced settings where aging populations are prevalent.^​37