5 Potential Signs of Uterine Prolapse

Almost half of all women between the ages of 50 and 80 have some level of pelvic organ prolapse. For menopausal women who have vaginally delivered more than one baby, this often specifically means uterine prolapse. 

Already connected to the vaginal canal through the cervix, the uterus is normally suspended by muscles, ligaments and other soft tissue in a central position in the pelvis. 

The rigors of pregnancy can stretch and weaken these support tissues, and they may never fully recover. The hormonal changes of menopause can further weaken this support system, allowing the uterus to press down into the vaginal canal. 

Not all cases of uterine prolapse cause problems, and it’s possible to have some degree of prolapse with no knowledge of it. But in other cases, uterine prolapse can seriously interfere with daily living. 

Our uterine prolapse specialists at Southeast Urogyn can diagnose and treat the signs and symptoms that you experience. 

In the early stages of prolapse or when your condition is mild, it’s possible that you’ll have no symptoms at all. Signs tend to emerge when you reach the moderate to severe stages of prolapse. Here are five such signs.

Pulling or heavy sensations

As prolapse becomes moderate, you may start to feel the effects of your uterus shifting. The first signs often come from the effects on the weakened support tissue. This translates to sensations of pulling or heaviness in the pelvic region. 

Urinary problems

When the uterus shifts, it can press against the bladder and the muscles that control it, interfering with regular urinary function. You can experience incontinence, including urine leakage, or the inability to completely empty your bladder. 

Protruding tissue

As prolapse advances, the uterus may press more completely into the vaginal canal. It can even completely pass into the canal in extreme cases. You may notice that your cervix changes shape, or you may feel as though you’re sitting on a ball when the uterus presses through. 

Sexual issues

Changes to the shape of your vaginal canal can cause discomfort or pain when you have sex, since the prolapsed uterus blocks some of the space needed for intercourse. You could have feelings of looseness or a sense that the tone of your vaginal walls has changed. 

Constipation 

Depending on how uterine tissue shifts, it can put pressure on the rectum, making it difficult to have a bowel movement. This can cause loss of moisture in the stool, making it hard and even more difficult to pass. 

There are other symptoms, including lower back pain and frequent bladder infections, and you may experience signs of uterine prolapse alone or in combinations. 

Contact us at Southeast Urogyn before the symptoms of prolapse become a major burden. There are plenty of treatment options, which we customize to your case. Call the closest office to book your consultation today. We’re located just outside Jackson in Madison and Flowood, Mississippi.