Prolapsed Uterus: Overview, Causes, Symptoms, and Stages

What is Uterine Prolapse? 

Uterine prolapse is the condition when the uterus falls toward or into the vaginal canal. It occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments weaken and can’t support the uterus anymore.

The uterus is a pear-shaped organ in the pelvic region, also called the womb. It is the primary portion of a female’s reproductive system where the foetus grows. During pregnancy, the uterus expands to fit the baby, and then it returns to normal after the baby is born. Over time, the inner entanglements in the uterus weaken, leading to uterine prolapse.

The severity of the prolapse depends on how weak the uterus’s supports have turned. In an “incomplete prolapse”, the uterus can slip partially into the vaginal canal (birth canal). As a result, a bump or lump is formed. In a more severe case, the uterus can move far enough out of the vaginal canal to cause problems. It is called “complete prolapse.”

A prolapsed uterus is more likely for women with one or more vaginal births. It is a common condition in postmenopausal women due to decreased estrogen levels. This hormone helps keep the pelvic muscles strong. 

What are the stages of Uterine Prolapse?

Muscle weakness or relaxation may cause your uterus to sag or completely exit your body in 4  uterine prolapse stages:

• First grade: During this stage, the uterus descends to the upper vaginal region
• Second grade: During this stage, the uterus arrives at the vaginal opening called the introitus
• Third grade: During this stage, the uterus descends out of the vagina
• Fourth grade: During this stage, the uterus is visible outside the vagina. A lack of strength in all supporting muscles causes this. Procidentia is another name for this condition.

The severity of the Uterine Prolapse depends on the stage it has reached. More severe cases may necessitate surgery, but in the early stage, exercises can help.

What are the Causes of Uterine Prolapse?

Uterine prolapse is more common in women over 55 when they experience menopause. The uterus is held together in your pelvis by a group of muscles and ligaments. This group of muscles is called the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor gets weaker, unable to support the uterus, so it starts to adhere out. Multiple factors weaken the pelvic muscles are:

• Pregnancy
• Pregnancy factors associated with delivery, such as trauma, having a large foetus or having multiple vaginal deliveries.
• Ageing, especially after menopause, is when estrogen levels in the blood drop.
• Obesity or overweight.
• A history of pelvic surgery
• Straining during bowel movements
• Chronic coughing
• Frequent heavy lifting
• Genetic factors 

What are the symptoms of Uterine Prolapse?  

You might not have any symptoms if you suffer from a mild prolapsed uterus. But when the uterus moves out of place, it can pressure other organs in the pelvis, like the bladder or bowel. It can lead to uterine prolapse symptoms like:

• A sensation of heaviness or force in the pelvic region.
• Pelvic, abdominal, or lower back pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Uterine tissue that falls through the vaginal opening
• Bladder infections 
• Vaginal discharge that is unusual or excessive
• Constipation
• Urinary issues, such as involuntary urine loss (incontinence), the need to urinate more often (urinary frequency), or the uncontrollable desire to urinate (urinary urgency).
• Your uterine prolapse symptoms may worsen when you stand or walk for extended periods. Gravity puts extra strain on the pelvic muscles in these positions.
• Feel like you’re sitting on a ball or something is falling out of your vagina.

What complications are associated with Prolapsed Uterus?

Another pelvic organ prolapse is frequently associated with uterine prolapse. You may encounter:

• The anterior prolapse (cystocele): Anterior prolapse is another name for prolapsed bladder. Because of a weakness in the connective tissue that separates the bladder and the vagina, the bladder may bulge into the vagina.
• Vaginal prolapse in the back (rectocele): You may be having trouble passing gas. The rectum may bulge into the vagina due to inadequate connective tissue between the rectum and the vagina.
• Ulcers: A severe uterine prolapse can cause Vaginal sores or ulcers. The sores can become infected in rare cases.

It is good to seek medical consultation immediately when you start experiencing mild uterine prolapse. Your gynaecologist can best guide you with a treatment plan for your symptoms.

Conclusion

A prolapsed uterus is a condition in which the uterus descends from its normal position in the pelvic cavity, leading to a range of symptoms and potential complications. It is important for individuals to be aware of the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options associated with a prolapsed uterus, and to seek medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms or discomfort in the pelvic area. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many women with prolapsed uterus can manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life.

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Disclaimer: The information given in this article is true to our best knowledge. Still, we recommend you consult your gynaecologist before taking any treatment for uterine prolapse mentioned in this article.