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Oestrogens for treatment or prevention of pelvic organ prolapse in postmenopausal women

Ismail SI, Bain C, Hagen S

The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2010

6,984 participants · 50 citations

Abstract

Background: Pelvic organ prolapse is common and can be detected in up to 50% of parous women although many are asymptomatic. Oestrogen preparations are used to improve vaginal thinning (atrophy). It is possible that oestrogens, alone or in conjunction with other interventions, might prevent or assist in the management of pelvic organ prolapse, for example by improving the strength of weakened supporting structures.

Objectives: To determine the effects of oestrogens or drugs with oestrogenic effects alone, or in conjunction with other treatments, both for prevention and treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.

Search strategy: We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Register of trials (searched 6 May 2010), MEDLINE (January 1950 to April 2010) as well as reference lists of relevant articles.

Selection criteria: Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that included the use of any oestrogens or drugs with oestrogenic (or anti-oestrogenic) actions for pelvic organ prolapse.

Data collection and analysis: Trials were assessed and data extracted independently by two review authors.

Main results: Three trials and one meta-analysis of adverse effects of a further three trials were identified. One trial did not provide useable data. Two trials included 148 women with prolapse, one included 58 postmenopausal women and the meta-analysis reported a mixed population (women with and without prolapse) of postmenopausal women (N=6984). The meta analysis and one other…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 6,984 participants or records.

How the five levels of evidence work. The level is assigned automatically from the abstract and can be wrong, so check the paper.

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