In the POP-Q (Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification) system, a patient with the leading edge of prolapse 3 cm beyond the hymen (point C at +3 cm) has what POP-Q stage?
- A Stage II — leading edge between −1 cm and +1 cm from hymen
- B Stage III — leading edge more than 1 cm beyond hymen but total vaginal length not everted ✓
- C Stage IV — total vaginal eversion (complete procidentia)
- D Stage II — requires all points to be measured before staging
Explanation
In the POP-Q system: Stage 0 = no prolapse; Stage I = leading edge > −1 cm above hymen; Stage II = leading edge between −1 cm and +1 cm relative to hymen; Stage III = leading edge > +1 cm beyond hymen but not to total vaginal length minus 2 cm; Stage IV = complete vaginal eversion (leading edge protrudes ≥ TVL minus 2 cm). Point C at +3 cm (3 cm beyond hymen) represents Stage III prolapse. Stage IV requires virtual complete vault eversion (within 2 cm of total vaginal length protrusion). POP-Q uses a standardized 9-point measurement system with Aa, Ba, C (apex/cervix), Gh, Pb, TVL, Ap, Bp, D points.
Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.