Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Medications

Although taking or applying the hormone estrogen will not cure an existing pelvic organ prolapse, it is sometimes prescribed for women during menopause to preserve or strengthen the tissues of the pelvis, which may help prevent prolapse. Estrogen prevents drying and thinning of the vaginal tissues (vaginal atrophy) and improves your ability to effectively use a support device for your vagina (pessary).

Recent studies show that taking estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase risks of serious diseases.⁵ Estrogen as a low-dose vaginal cream is not thought to pose the same risks to women's health. Talk to your health professional about taking or applying estrogen.

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Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: October 25, 2006
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine R. Hugh Gorwill, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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