What is a Prolapsed Uterus?

30 Sep What is a Prolapsed Uterus?

A prolapsed uterus occurs when a woman’s pelvic floor muscles and ligaments become weaker to the point where they cannot support the uterus in its normal position. The uterus may then slip into the vagina or protrude outside of the vagina.

Women of any age can experience a prolapsed uterus; however, it is more common in women who have given birth vaginally. Other causes include: coughing/chronic bronchitis, repeated heavy lifting, overweight/obese, vaginal delivery of a large baby, decreased estrogen levels due to menopause, chronic constipation, and difficult labor.

Symptoms of a Prolapsed Uterus:

• Urinary incontinence, leakage or retention
• Tissue protruding from the vagina
• Heavy or pulling feeling in the vagina
• Feeling like you are sitting on a ball
• Feeling as if something is falling out of your vagina
• Issues with bowel movements

Ways to Prevent a Prolapsed Uterus:

• Kegel exercises to improve pelvic tone
• Prevent constipation by increasing water intake and eating fruits and vegetables
• Decrease heavy lifting or correctly lift heavy objects to avoid straining the pelvic area
• Treatment for chronic bronchitis and decrease coughing incidents by seeking medical attention
• Control weight gain/maintain healthy weight by improving diet and increasing exercise

As always, make an appointment with your healthcare practitioner so they can provide you with treatment options.