Uterine prolapse is a common condition that affects women. Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus drops into the vagina as a result of a weakening of the pelvic muscles.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Uterine Prolapse

One of the first and most notable signs of prolapse is a feeling like there’s a ball of tissue in the vagina.

There are several symptoms related to pain including:

  • Low back pain
  • Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area
  • Pain during sex (dyspareunia)

Symptoms relating to urinary function include:

  • A sense of a ball of tissue inside the vagina or the sensation that something is falling out of the vagina
  • Difficulty urinating or with bowel movements
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Incomplete voiding (the feeling that your bladder isn’t empty after urinating)

Painful or bleeding tissue protruding is one of the most obvious signs. However, women suffering from a very mild uterine prolapse or early-stage uterine prolapse may experience few, if any, symptoms.

Causes of Uterine Prolapse

There are some natural and environmental health causes of uterine prolapse. They deal with types of situations that put stress on the bladder and pelvis.

Lifestyle-related causes of uterine prolapse include:

  • Obesity

Health-related & aging-related causes include:

  • Pregnancy
  • Childbirth
  • Menopause

There are two types of uterine prolapse: incomplete and complete uterine prolapse. A uterine prolapse is considered incomplete in cases where the uterus has partially descended into the vagina but has not yet begun to protrude. In cases of complete uterine prolapse, a portion of uterine tissue is indeed protruding from the vaginal opening. Additionally, uterine prolapse is classified in categories from 1st grade to 4th grade which indicate the severity of the prolapse, 1 being the least severe and 4 being most severe.

 

When to See A Doctor about Uterine Prolapse

If you’re currently concerned you may be suffering from uterine prolapse or have experienced any combination of the symptoms above, see a doctor as soon as possible. If you believe this may be an emergency, dial 911 or visit an emergency care facility immediately.

How Advanced Gynecology Can Help: Treatment Options for Uterine Prolapse

Some of the precautionary measures you can take to prevent or manage uterine prolapse may include:

  •       Regulating body weight
  •       Kegel exercises
  •       Treat cough
  •       Treat constipation
  •       Lift properly and avoid strain

If your doctor deems that you need surgical intervention, robotic surgical options including laparoscopy for uterine prolapse are available. One such procedure is Pessary which relies on a plastic or rubber fitting (ring) that is inserted into the vagina to support the tissues that are bulging. The pessary is not a permanent surgical measure and must be cleaned and maintained on an ongoing basis.

Surgical treatments may include hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or pelvic reconstruction or other minimally invasive options. Discuss treatment options with your specialist.

Our board-certified team of specialists and surgeons are here for you to help you get the care you need for all of your women’s health needs including uterine prolapse. 

Our state-of-the-art facilities equipped with robotic surgical technology ensure you have access to the most up-to-date and least invasive surgical options such as laparoscopic procedures. 

We work to find the best treatment plan for you.

For more information, schedule an appointment today or call 706-608-5232 to speak with one of our patient coordinators.

 

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