Background: Although early diagnosis and treatment options are available, many women arrive at health facilities late with an advanced stage of uterovaginal prolapse. This delay not only exacerbates physical discomfort but also their mental, emotional, and social life and the management of the case itself and its complications. However, research about their delaying factors in seeking is limited in the study district. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the barriers in early seeking of a diagnosis and treatment among women with uterovaginal prolapse, which can help in prevention interventions.

Methods: A qualitative study using a phenomenological study design was conducted between September 2025 and January 11, 2026, in Gumer District, Central Ethiopia. Twenty-seven participants with advanced uterovaginal prolapse were purposefully selected and interviewed in-depth until data saturation was achieved. Then the interviews were first transcribed and coded, and categories and themes were generated by applying thematic analysis.

Findings: Three major themes, personal, clinical, and social, were identified as the barriers in early seeking of a diagnosis and treatment among women with uterovaginal prolapse.

Conclusion: Barriers to early diagnosis and treatment of uterovaginal prolapse in women are systemic, linked to patients, community, and the respectful care behaviors of health professionals. Developing culturally sensitive and inclusive programs for patients, families, and health systems is essential to address these barriers. Furthermore, additional multi-perspective research involving spouses, families, communities, health professionals, and health service leaders is critical for effectively overcoming these challenges.