Uterine Prolapse

What is uterine prolapse?

Your uterus is held in place by the muscles and connective tissues of your pelvic floor. When your pelvic floor weakens, your uterus and other pelvic organs can move out of their normal positions and descend, causing a prolapse. Uterine prolapse occurs when your womb drops into your vagina and in some cases, protrudes out of your body.

If you have uterine prolapse, you may feel like you’re sitting on a ball or a heavy, pulling sensation in your pelvis. Other symptoms include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Problems with penetrative sex
• Constipation or trouble emptying your bladder
• Recurring bladder infections

If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment at Women’s Health Services right away. When left untreated, a uterine prolapse will only worsen and cause more disruptive and painful symptoms.

What causes uterine prolapse?

Trauma and stress to your pelvic floor can lead to uterine prolapse. For example, many women struggle to restore their pelvic floor strength after having babies. Additionally, as your estrogen and progesterone levels decrease as you age, your pelvic floor and reproductive tissue becomes thin and weak, which increases your risk of uterine prolapse.

You can reduce your risk of uterine prolapse by practicing Kegel exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying physically active.

How is uterine prolapse treated?

Treatment for uterine prolapse depends on the severity of your condition. For example, if your prolapse is mild, you may benefit from losing weight and having physical therapy to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Your doctor may also recommend a pessary to provide additional support.

However, if your prolapse is more severe, your doctor may suggest a vaginal hysterectomy or a vaginal reconstruction to resolve your condition. During a vaginal reconstruction, your doctor places your uterus back in its usual position and reattaches your pelvic ligaments to restore support in your pelvic floor.

During a vaginal hysterectomy, your doctor surgically removes your prolapsed uterus from your vagina. Depending on your condition, they may also perform an abdominal hysterectomy.

If you think you have uterine prolapse, call Women’s Health Services, or make an appointment online today to get a diagnosis and the treatment you need.