Learn about the key symptoms of uterine prolapse
The uterus (womb) is an organ of the female reproductive structure. It is formed like an upside down pear and is situated inside the pelvis. Ligaments and connective tissue also dangle the uterus and pelvic organs in place. If these muscles or connective tissues are debilitated or impaired, the uterus can fall down into the vagina. This is acknowledged as prolapse. Common reasons of uterine prolapse consist of vaginal childbirth, obesity, severe coughing, straining on the toilet and hormonal fluctuations after menopause which can impair the pelvic organ support structures. First line treatment should consist of pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises, imparted by a pelvic floor physiotherapist and also herbal medicines.
Symptoms of prolapse of the uterus
Wondering what are the symptoms of uterine prolapse? The main symptoms of uterine prolapse consist of:
- a feeling of heaviness and pressure in the vagina
- a distinctive lump or protuberance within the vagina
- a protuberance bulging out of the vagina
- aching sexual intercourse
Degrees of uterine prolapse
Uterine prolapse is defined in stages, representing how far it has sloped. Other pelvic organs (such as the bladder or bowel) might also be prolapsed into the vagina. The four groupings of uterine prolapse are:
- Stage I – the uterus is in the upper portion of the vagina
- Stage II – the uterus has sloped closely to the opening of the vagina
- Stage III – the uterus obtrudes out of the vagina
- Stage IV – the uterus is totally out of the vagina.