Symptoms of Uterine Prolapse
The symptoms of uterine prolapse will be more apparent the more severe the condition. A minor prolapse may only cause a feeling of pelvic heaviness or lower back pain. As the condition progresses, you may experience vaginal bleeding, an increase in vaginal discharge, and difficulties with having intercourse. Most women will experience difficulty with bowel movements and eventually feel the protrusion as the uterus begins to push out of the vagina.
Treating Uterine Prolapse
In the early stages of uterine prolapse, you may be able to treat it with Kegel exercises and dietary changes to prevent constipation. Other lifestyle treatments include avoiding heavy lifting, managing chronic coughs more effectively, and maintaining a healthy weight. Some women are able to use a vaginal pessary to help support the uterus, but it can have its own complications, including infection.
If you have a grade 3 or 4 prolapse, in which the uterus is beginning to protrude from the vagina, you may need surgery.
Surgical Options for Uterine Prolapse
A hysterectomy is not always required, although it is an option. More likely, your physician will recommend reconstructive surgery, which involves your doctor reconstructing the weakened pelvic floor muscles to help put the organs back in their correct position or obliterative surgery, which involves your doctor surgically closing up your vagina to prevent the organs from falling or slipping out. You will no longer be able to have sex after this type of procedure.
If you are experiencing symptoms of urinary incontinence or uterine prolapse, schedule an appointment with an Ob/Gyn specialist at Huey & Weprin Ob/Gyn. With specialized care and cutting-edge treatments in obstetrics and gynecology, Huey & Weprin Ob/Gyn offers a wide variety of gynecologic and obstetric services from leaders in Ob/Gyn research development. Call 937.771.5100 or fill out the form on this page to schedule an appointment.
