Vaginal Vault Prolapse

Following a total hysterectomy, where the uterus and cervix are removed, the top of the vagina is surgically attached to strong supportive tissues. Over a variable period of time, this re-created support could weaken. If this happens, the top of the vagina falls toward the opening of the vagina, and in severe cases, can protrude out of the vagina. Symptoms of vaginal vault prolopse can be pelvic pain, pelvic pressure or a large buldge at the vagina.

This can be illustrated by imagining an athletic tube sock. If you were to place your hand inside the sock, grab the toe, and pull outward, the inverted "tube" would approximate the way the top of the vagina falls through the opening of the vagina.