prolapse

[ noun proh-laps, proh-laps; verb proh-laps ]

noun

1. Pathology. a falling down of an organ or part, as the uterus, from its normal position.

verb (used without object)

, pro·lapsed, pro·laps·ing.

1. to fall or slip down or out of place.

prolapse

/ ˈprəʊlæps; prəʊˈlæps /

noun

1. Also calledprolapsusprəʊˈlæpsəs the sinking or falling down of an organ or part, esp the womb Compare proptosis

verb

1. (of an organ, etc) to sink from its normal position

Word History and Origins

Origin of prolapse¹

First recorded in 1555–65, prolapse is from the Late Latin word prōlāpsus a slipping forth. See pro- ¹, lapse

Word History and Origins

Origin of prolapse¹

C17: from Latin prōlābi to slide along, from pro- ¹+ lābī to slip

Example Sentences

Most commonly caused by childbirth, prolapse occurs when pelvic organs that serve as walls supporting the vagina collapse, like the cervix or the uterus.

From Salon

“I don’t think that the menstrual cup causes prolapse.”

From Salon

The chances are slim to non-existent, according to pelvic floor and prolapse specialists I spoke to for this story.

From Salon

"If they have a concern, they should get checked out, but if it's just a minor prolapse, then it's probably always been there."

From Salon

“I suspect a menstrual cup in a lot of women might actually help with their prolapse rather than cause prolapse,” Sussman told Salon in a phone interview.

From Salon

Related Words

• cascade
• collapse
• crash
• dip
• disembark
• dive
• go down
• penetrate
• plummet
• plunge
• settle
• sink
• slide
• stumble
• subside
• swoop
• trickle
• tumble