You may not hear much about uterine prolapse in everyday conversations, but it affects many women, especially those who’ve given birth or are past menopause. The pelvic floor muscles, ligaments, and other connective tissues ensure that the uterus stays in place. When these structures become weak because of lack of hormones or childbirth trauma, they may not be able to support uterus properly. This may cause your uterus to drop lower or push into the vaginal canal. This is called uterine prolapse.
What Causes Uterine Prolapse?
Some of the reasons that cause pelvic muscle weakening that make your uterus shift downwards are:
- Natural birth, especially multiple or difficult vaginal deliveries
- Getting older and having lower estrogen levels after menopause
- Being overweight
- Long-term coughs or bronchitis
- Chronic constipation
- Weak connective tissue because of connective tissue disorders.
What Does Uterine Prolapse Feel Like?
There may be a lot of women who have symptoms of uterus prolapse. Some of these are:
- Having a pulling feeling inside the pelvis
- Experiencing or seeing tissue protrude from the vagina
- Experiencing difficulties in emptying the bladder or having urine leaks
- Constipation
- Back pain
- Uterus prolapse can also lead to discomfort during intercourse
Is Surgery the Only Option?
No doubt, uterine prolapse is a serious condition. But you don’t always need surgery. Physical examination is the first step in diagnosis of uterine prolapse. Your gynecologist will review the results and create a treatment plan for you.
Non-surgical treatment options include:
- Pelvic floor therapy – Exercises to strengthen the muscles
- Pessary – A silicone device inserted into the vagina to provide support
Surgical treatments are:
- Uterine suspension – Uterus is lifted and secured in place
- Vaginal hysterectomy – Uterus is removed if symptoms are severe
Waiting Can Make Things Worse
In most women, uterine prolapse starts as a discomfort in the vaginal area, and you might start feeling something protruding from the vaginal opening. Often, women delay treatment, thinking that it will go away on its own. They don’t! In fact, untreated prolapse can lead to bladder issues, frequent infections, and surgery later on. That’s why early evaluation matters. The sooner you meet with a specialist, the more likely that you don’t need surgery. Even when surgery is needed, recovery can be much easier when it’s done in the early stages.
Trust an Expert for Uterine Prolapse
Dr Niraj Mahajan is a leading gynaecologist in Mumbai, who is a trusted specialist for treating complex pelvic conditions. He uses a wide range of methods, such as pelvic floor treatment, pessary fitting, and minimally invasive surgeries like laparoscopic repair to treat uterine prolapse. Call the Dr. Niraj Mahajan Clinic at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai, to book your appointment today!