Prolapsed Uterus Specialist

What is a prolapsed uterus?

A prolapsed uterus is a condition in which your uterus drops down or slips into the vagina. It can occur when pelvic floor ligaments and muscles weaken and stretch, and aren’t strong enough to fully support the uterus. 

Uterine prolapse can happen at any age, but most often affects postmenopausal women who have had past vaginal deliveries.

What are the symptoms of a prolapsed uterus?

The following signs and symptoms can indicate you have a prolapsed uterus:

• Tissue protruding into the vagina
• Heaviness or pulling in your pelvis
• Urinary incontinence or retention
• Difficulty with bowel movements
• Loose vaginal tissue
• Feeling like something is falling out of your vagina

Symptoms might not bother you as much in the morning and get worse throughout the day. If you have mild uterine prolapse, you may not experience symptoms at all.

What are the risk factors for a prolapsed uterus?

Weak pelvic muscles are often the cause of a prolapsed uterus. Factors that increase your risk of experiencing it include:

• Difficulty labor or delivery during childbirth
• Past vaginal births
• Delivering a large baby
• Obesity
• Being postmenopausal
• Repeated heavy lifting
• Straining with bowel movements
• Older age
• Previous pelvic surgery
• Family history of uterine prolapse

Complications that can develop with untreated uterine prolapse include a prolapsed bladder, vaginal prolapse, or rectal prolapse. 

How is a prolapsed uterus diagnosed and treated?

To diagnose a prolapsed uterus, your Elite Women’s Care specialist reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a pelvic exam and might recommend you undergo bladder function tests. 

Based on the severity of uterine prolapse symptoms, your Elite Women’s Care provider may suggest one of the following treatments:

Self-care measures

Self-care measures that can offer uterine prolapse symptom relief include Kegel exercises, weight loss, avoiding heavy lifting, and seeking treatment for constipation.

Vaginal pessaries

A vaginal pessary is a ring you insert into your vagina to support tissues. You can remove the ring to clean it.

Surgical procedures

Minimally invasive surgical procedures can treat uterine prolapse by repairing weak pelvic floor tissues or removing your uterus during a hysterectomy. Your OB/GYN specialist reviews the risks and benefits of each surgical procedure to find one that’s right for you.

Don’t live with unpleasant symptoms associated with a prolapsed uterus. Schedule an appointment by phone or online with Elite Women’s Care today.