Topic Guide: About Uterine Prolapse

 

As the age of a woman increases at the same pace, the issues linked to her body also increase. With an increase in age, a women’s body goes through several different changes like Menopause, skin problems, hormonal changes, and uterine prolapse.

In a conversation with Dr. Elsa, a Female Gynaecologist in Dubai she says, Uterine prolapse is a common condition that occurs when the uterus descends towards the vagina because the internal support of the uterus offered by pelvic floor muscles and ligaments becomes weak over time. Considered the most common condition in aged women uterine prolapse is likely to happen to women who: have had more vaginal deliveries are in the post-menopausal condition, etc.

Stages in Uterine Prolapse

Uterine prolapse is divided into two stages determined by how far the uterus has descended. The two stages of uterine prolapse are:

1. Incomplete uterine prolapse: Under this condition, the uterus is said to be partially displaced into the vagina.
2. Complete uterine prolapse: Under this condition, a portion of the uterus is said to be extended from the vaginal opening.

Under the stages, the condition is graded into 4 parts.

1. 1st degree: Descended to the upper vagina
2. 2nd degree: Descended to the introitus
3. 3rd degree: Cervix has descended outside the introitus
4. 4th degree: Cervix and uterus are descended outside the introitus

Causes and Symptoms of Uterine Prolapse

Cause of Uterine Prolapse

Uterine prolapse is caused by weakened muscles and ligaments that are not fully able to hold the uterus in position.

The major factor responsible for the cause of uterine prolapse is:

1. Loss of muscle tone
2. Pregnancy
3. Chronic coughing
4. History of pelvic surgery
5. Higher age

Symptoms of Uterine Prolapse

Symptoms linked to uterine prolapse depend on the severity of the prolapse.

Typical symptoms included are:

1. Pelvic heaviness
2. Vaginal bleeding
3. Pain in sexual intercourse
4. Lower back pain
5. Weak vaginal tissue
6. Sensation falling out of the vagina
7. Weak vaginal tissue
8. Frequent bladder infection

As advised by Dr. Elsa, a Top specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Dubai, the symptoms of uterine prolapse can get worse when you stand or walk for a long period of time.

Tests and Diagnosis of Uterine Prolapse

Diagnosis of uterine prolapse will be done by your healthcare provider by performing a pelvic examination and other tests.

The common tests to be performed are:

1. Pelvic exam: Under pelvic exam, the healthcare provider will insert a speculum and examine the vagina and uterus.
2. Renal sonography: Under Renal sonography or intravenous pyelogram dye is injected and x-rays are performed to view its progress.
3. Ultrasound: Under ultrasound, a wand is passed over your abdomen to test other pelvic problems.

Treatment of Uterine Prolapse

There are several treatments that can be done to cure the problem of uterine prolapse.

1. Exercise: There are a few special exercises called Kegal exercise that help you strengthen the muscles.
2. Vaginal pessary: A pessary is a rubber and plastic doughnut-shaped device meant to be inserted in the lower part of the uterus. It helps prop up and hold the uterus in place.
3. Hysterectomy: Hysterectomy is a surgical method of removing the uterus. It is done through a cut in the vagina or the abdomen.