How is stage III prolapse characterized?

Stage III prolapse is characterized by the most prolapsed point being more than 1 cm outside the hymen. This classification is part of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system, which is commonly used to evaluate and stage pelvic organ prolapse. In stage III, the degree of descent indicates a more significant prolapse, where the tissue protrudes beyond the vaginal opening, which can lead to various symptoms and complications.

The importance of recognizing this classification is crucial for management decisions and patient education regarding the severity of prolapse, the potential impact on quality of life, and the treatment options available. Understanding the specific measurements involved helps clinicians effectively communicate the condition's severity to patients and tailor appropriate interventions.