Uterine Prolapse

A uterine prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor becomes weakened and the surrounding tissues, muscles, and ligaments are unable to provide proper support to the uterus. This may lead to the uterus descending down or into the vagina. In more severe cases, the uterus may protrude out of the vaginal opening.

Although uncommon, some complications may arise if left untreated. An ulceration of exposed tissues or additional prolapses may occur: rectal or bladder.

However, there are many different treatment options available to you! In this article we address uterine prolapse and how you may find treatment without the need of surgery.

What is a Prolapse?

A prolapse or a pelvic organ prolapse, happens when 1 or more organs become displaced. They can either bulge into the vaginal canal or into the rectum. The most common forms of prolapse are uterine prolapse, bowel (rectal) prolapse, and bladder prolapse.

These conditions are not life threatening, but may cause painful or uncomfortable symptoms.

In many cases, we at RYC®, have noticed that these symptoms are often relieved and treated through corrective exercise and various lifestyle changes.

What is a Prolapsed Uterus?

Uterine prolapse is a particular kind of pelvic organ prolapse. Although it is more common during pregnancy and childbirth, a uterine prolapse can occur in women of any age and stage of life. Women who are postmenopausal or have had multiple deliveries may be at a higher risk of developing a uterine prolapse.

However, in many cases, surgical treatment is not required. A mild or minor prolapse may resolve through minor lifestyle, exercise, or diet changes. Some providers recommend surgery when prolapse causes pain or unbearable discomfort that interrupts your daily life.

Stages of Uterine Prolapse

A uterine prolapse is often categorized in two different ways: incomplete or complete.

An incomplete uterine prolapse is defined by a partial displacement of the uterus into the vagina, without protrusion.

A complete uterine prolapse is defined by a partial or full protrusion of the uterus out of the vaginal opening. A complete prolapse is then graded in severity, depending on how far the uterus has descended.

• 1st grade: when the cervix has descended into the upper vagina
• 2nd grade: the cervix has descended to the vaginal opening
• 3rd grade: the cervix has protruded outside of the introitus
• 4th grade: the uterus and cervix have both descended out of the vaginal opening

In many cases, exercise may be able to help. In severe cases there may be a need for medical treatment. If you have concerns, it is always best to consult a health professional for a diagnosis.

Symptoms of a Uterine Prolapse

There are many different symptoms that may arise depending on the severity. The most common symptoms of uterine prolapse include:

• a feeling of heaviness or pulling in the pelvic floor muscles
• increased vaginal discharge or bleeding
• painful or difficulty having sex
• urinary incontinence or urinary retention
• chronic constipation, bowel movement difficulty
• lumbar spine pain
• bulge or protrusion from the vaginal opening
• feeling or sensation of something falling from the vagina or like sitting on a ball
• weak vaginal tissue