prolapse

American  

[proh-laps, proh-laps, proh-laps] / proʊˈlæps, ˈproʊ læps, proʊˈlæps /

noun

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

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verb (used without object)

prolapsed, prolapsing

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

prolapse British  

/ ˈprəʊlæps, prəʊˈlæps /

noun

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

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verb

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

Etymology

Origin of prolapse

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

Example Sentences

Mesh was considered to be the gold standard treatment for incontinence and prolapse in women for years.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

When these muscles become overly tight or loose, patients can experience issues like pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and incontinence—which all have serious implications if left untreated.

From Slate • Oct. 6, 2025

Through the procedure, mesh implants are placed into the body to treat pelvic organ prolapse which can occur after childbirth.

From BBC • May 12, 2025

Estimates vary but around 50% of people who have had babies experience some degree of prolapse and the use of forceps or a vacuum during birth increases the risk.

From Salon • Oct. 25, 2024

Rickets, mucous disease, lienteric diarrhoea, infantilism, prolapse of the rectum, and infection with thread-worms are common complications.

From The Nervous Child by Cameron, Hector Charles

Related Words

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