Uterine Prolapse Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Descent of the uterus, or uterine prolapse, is a condition that can occur when the muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor stretch and weaken, and reduce their ability to support the uterus. As a result, the uterus may descend or protrude from the vagina.
This condition can be experienced by all women. However, this problem is more common in postmenopausal women, with a history of one or more vaginal deliveries.
Doctors can perform certain treatments to address the problem of uterine prolapse if it causes discomfort and interferes with the sufferer’s daily activities.
Uterine Prolapse Symptoms
Generally, the uterus descends with mild degrees without showing certain signs or symptoms. However, in moderate or severe degrees, signs and symptoms of a prolapsed uterus may appear in the form of:
- A feeling of heaviness or pulling in the pelvis
- There is tissue protruding from the vagina
- Urination disorders, such as dripping urine (incontinence) or urinary retention
- Difficulty defecating
- Feeling uncomfortable when sitting, or feeling like something has fallen out of the vagina
- When having sex, problems often occur, such as something that escapes or is loose in the vagina
Uterine Prolapse Reason
A prolapsed uterus or uterine prolapse can result from weakening of the pelvic muscles and surrounding supporting tissues. The cause of weakening of the pelvic muscles and tissues can arise due to several conditions, such as:
- Pregnancy
- Difficult birth or injury during delivery
- Big baby delivery
- Overweight or obesity
- Low estrogen levels after menopause
There are several factors that increase the risk of uterine prolapse, including:
- One or more pregnancies and vaginal deliveries
- Big baby delivery
- Age
- Obesity
- History of previous hip surgery
- Chronic constipation
- Frequent straining during bowel movements
- History of soft tissue weakness in family members
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a prolapsed uterus can be determined through a detailed medical interview and direct physical examination of the pelvis. When carrying out a physical examination of the pelvis, the doctor will evaluate it to see if there is a decrease from the uterus to the vaginal cavity and check the strength of the pelvic muscles.
Those who are diagnosed with a prolapsed uterus also need to be informed about the problem. The doctor can give a questionnaire to evaluate the extent to which the condition affects the quality of life and daily activities. Thus the doctor is helped to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Uterine Prolapse Treatment
Treatment that can be done for the uterus to descend depends on several factors. One of them is the degree of severity of uterine prolapse that occurs.
Types of treatment that can be done include:
- Home care. If the uterine prolapse that occurs is classified as mild and does not cause complaints, then it can be treated at home. The goal of treatment is to prevent worsening of the prolapse that has already occurred.
Types of treatment that can be done at home, for example, doing Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, maintain a stable weight, and prevent and treat constipation.
- Pessary installation. A vaginal pessary is a plastic or rubber ring that is inserted into the vagina to support protruding tissue.
The pessary should be installed and then removed periodically for cleaning. The installation of a pessary must also be in accordance with the indications.
- Surgery. If the degree of the uterus dropping is considered severe enough, the doctor may recommend surgery. Actions can include minimally invasive surgery using the laparoscopic method or surgery through the vagina.
Surgery can include correcting weakened pelvic floor muscles or removing the uterus. Determining the most suitable type of surgery depends on various factors.
Prevention
To minimize the risk of uterine prolapse, there are several things that can be implemented, such as:
- Do Kegel exercise regularly? This exercise can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. It is important to do especially after giving birth.
- Treat and prevent constipation. This can be done by consuming adequate amounts of fluids and consuming foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grain cereals.
- Avoid lifting heavy weights. Also try to train yourself with the right position, posture, and way when you have to support or lift weights.
- Avoid prolonged coughing. Those who experience coughing complaints are advised to seek treatment immediately to get further evaluation. Avoid smoking, cigarette smoke, and dust pollution because they can make your cough worse.
- Maintain body weight to remain ideal. If you are overweight, do a program to achieve the ideal weight according to age, height and other factors. Consult a nutritionist or fitness expert for various steps to maintain an ideal body weight.