Uterine Prolapse

What Is Uterine Prolapse?

Uterine prolapse is a condition where the uterus descends into the vaginal canal. The uterus can drop in full or in part. A first-degree prolapse occurs when the cervix drops into the vagina. A second-degree prolapse occurs when the cervix is level with the vaginal opening. When the cervix is outside of the vagina, the prolapse is classified as third degree. When the entire uterus is outside of the vagina, the prolapse is fourth degree and referred to as procidentia.

What Causes Uterine Prolapse?

Uterine prolapse is caused by weakness in the vaginal muscles and pelvic floor muscles. Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth are common causes due to the stress and trauma to the vagina and pelvic floor during gestation and delivery. Aging and the declining levels of estrogen associated with menopause also contribute to a thinning and weakening of the vaginal walls and pelvic floor which can lead to uterine prolapse. Conditions that put extra pressure on the abdomen, like a chronic cough, straining to pass a bowel movement, or being obese can also factor into the development of this condition.

How Is Uterine Prolapse Treated?

Women should all practice pelvic floor exercises like Kegels to build strength in this area to either prevent uterine prolapse or to rehabilitate the pelvis following prolapse. Some women may benefit from estrogen treatments through suppositories ovules or rings inserted into the vagina. Surgery is an option as symptoms dictate circumstances. A hysterectomy removes the uterus, which will remove the prolapse. Hysterectomies are often performed in minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures or through an incisionless procedure through the vagina. If surgery is not an option, some women may benefit from a supportive device like a pessary that acts like scaffolding within the pelvis to help hold the uterus in place. The doctors at Southeast Urogyn have performed thousands of surgeries for this condition and data show that outcomes from surgery are much better with more experience.  Southeast Urogyn provides thorough consultations to their patients to determine the best course of treatment for each individual patient.