When the pelvic floor becomes weakened, a woman may develop uterine prolapse — a condition in which various pelvic organs relax and protrude into the vagina. These organs include the bladder, uterus, rectum and even small bowel. It is not always serious. However many of the symptoms, such as loss of bladder control, can interfere with your everyday life. Fortunately, our women’s health providers have numerous treatment options to help control your symptoms.
Read More: Bladder Control Treatment for Women
Uterine Prolapse Risk Factors
Uterine prolapse is a type of pelvic organ prolapse, which can develop over the course of a woman’s life.
“Stretching of or pressure on the abdominal and pelvic floor tissues can weaken them, making it harder for them to hold the pelvic organs in place,” says Dr. Curtis Elam, a board-certified OBGYN at Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists. “This weakening can occur as a result of vaginal childbirth, obesity, heavy lifting, smoking, a chronic cough or chronic constipation. Changes related to aging and menopause can also make a person more susceptible to pelvic organ prolapse.”
Changes related to aging and menopause can also make uterine prolapse more likely.
Vaginal Bulge and Other Uterine Prolapse Symptoms
Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms vary widely and may not bother everyone. Symptoms include:
- A bulge in the vagina. When any pelvic organs protrude into the vagina, you may notice a bulge protruding from the vagina.
- Pelvic discomfort. It is common to feel pelvic pressure or a sense of “something falling out.”
- Urinary incontinence. You might experience urinary leakage especially when coughing, sneezing or laughing.
- Back pain. Lower back pain can accompany pelvic organ prolapse.
- Changes to vaginal discharge. You might notice bleeding or a change in your normal discharge.
Read More: Back Pain: Is It Something Serious?
Finding Relief
A primary care physician (PCP) or women’s health specialist can provide treatment for pelvic organ prolapse. If your symptoms don’t keep you from enjoying your favorite activities, your doctor may simply monitor the symptoms to ensure they don’t get worse.
Exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles are the simplest option and may slow or reverse a mild case of pelvic organ prolapse. Your physician may recommend these exercises along with other treatments to help control symptoms. Other options might include a removable, customizable device called a pessary, physical therapy, medication and even surgery.
“Ultimately, it’s important to know that there is help and each patient has options,” Dr. Elam says.
If you’re experiencing uterine prolapse symptoms, request an appointment with an OBGYN to discuss any concerns.
