The POP-Q system stages pelvic organ prolapse using anatomical reference points. Stage III prolapse is defined as:

• A Leading edge of prolapse at the hymenal ring (point 0)
• B Leading edge of prolapse >1 cm beyond the hymen but not completely everted ✓
• C Complete vaginal vault eversion (procidentia)
• D Leading edge 1–2 cm proximal to the hymen

Explanation

POP-Q staging: Stage 0 = no prolapse; Stage I = leading edge >1 cm above hymen; Stage II = leading edge within 1 cm of the hymen (above or below); Stage III = leading edge >1 cm beyond hymen but not completely everted (not reaching maximum descent); Stage IV = complete eversion (total vaginal inversion or procidentia). Stage III therefore is the leading edge >1 cm beyond the hymen but <(total vaginal length – 2 cm).

Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.

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