Early forms of pelvic organ prolapse: Clinical significance, etiology and pathogenesis

A review of literature deals with studies of the etiology and pathogenesis of pelvic organ prolapse in women. The attention is focussed on the underestimation of the clinical significance of early forms of prolapse. In particular, having an asymptomatic course, early forms of pelvic organ prolapse are the «underwater portion of the iceberg» of some clinical symptoms influencing the quality of women's life. The absence of a clear classification system and strict diagnostic criteria, that would take into account clinical and medical history data, specificities of the composition of connective tissue and the way of life, complicate the choice of the optimal way of management of small forms of prolapse and prevention of progression. Search and unification of assessment criteria, and a differentiated approach to treating such patients are currently one of the priority tasks.