Uterine prolapse

Uterine Prolapse
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pelvic pressure, vaginal bulging, urinary incontinence
Complications	Ulceration, infection
Onset	Post-menopausal women
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	Weakening of pelvic floor muscles
Risks	Childbirth, obesity, aging
Diagnosis	N/A
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Pessary, surgery, pelvic floor exercises
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Uterine prolapse is a condition where the uterus descends from its normal position into the vaginal canal due to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. This condition can lead to discomfort, urinary problems, and other complications if left untreated.

Anatomy and Pathophysiology

The uterus is held in place by a network of muscles and ligaments, including the uterosacral ligaments, which provide support and maintain its position within the pelvis. When these structures weaken, the uterus can slip down into the vaginal canal, resulting in prolapse.

Uterosacral ligaments connected to the uterus

Causes

Uterine prolapse is primarily caused by the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. Factors that contribute to this weakening include:

• Childbirth, especially multiple vaginal deliveries
• Menopause, due to decreased estrogen levels
• Obesity, which increases pressure on the pelvic floor
• Chronic coughing or straining
• Genetic predisposition

Symptoms

Symptoms of uterine prolapse can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• A feeling of heaviness or pulling in the pelvis
• Vaginal bulging or protrusion
• Urinary incontinence or retention
• Difficulty with bowel movements
• Lower back pain

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of uterine prolapse is typically made through a pelvic examination. The degree of prolapse is often classified using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system.

Treatment

Treatment options for uterine prolapse depend on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health and preferences. Options include:

• Pessary: A device inserted into the vagina to support the uterus
• Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises
• Surgical options, including hysterectomy or uterine suspension

Prevention

Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight, performing regular pelvic floor exercises, and avoiding activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure.

Also see

• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Hysterectomy
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Kegel exercises

References

• "Uterine Prolapse." Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-prolapse/symptoms-causes/syc-20353458.
• "Pelvic Organ Prolapse." Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14438-pelvic-organ-prolapse.

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