Sexual Experiences of Women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Qualitative Study

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common pelvic floor disorder that can adversely affect women’s sexual function and quality of life. Although quantitative studies have documented sexual dysfunction in women with POP, little is known about women’s lived sexual experiences. This study aimed to explore how women with advanced POP experience and interpret changes in their sexual lives.

A hermeneutic–phenomenological qualitative study was conducted at a university hospital urogynecology outpatient clinic. Fifteen women with stage III–IV POP, diagnosed using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system, were recruited through purposive sampling. Individual, face-to-face, in-depth interviews were conducted between February 2024 and February 2025. Data were analyzed using interpretive thematic analysis with MaxQDA 2024. Reporting followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ).

Participants reported profound disruptions in their sexual lives. Three main themes emerged: (1) the impact of POP on sexual activity, (2) factors affecting quality of life, and (3) coping and management strategies before surgery. Sexual difficulties included dyspareunia, fear of coital incontinence, reduced sexual desire, shortened intercourse, and avoidance of sexual activity. Women also described body image concerns, shame, emotional distress, and strain in intimate relationships.

Advanced POP affects women’s sexuality beyond physical symptoms, with significant psychological and relational consequences. Sexual health concerns are often under-recognized in clinical practice. Integrating structured sexual assessment and holistic, patient-centered counseling into POP management may improve sexual and overall quality-of-life outcomes.