Mild uterine prolapse generally doesn't cause signs or symptoms. Signs and symptoms of moderate to severe uterine prolapse include:
Sensation of heaviness or pulling in your pelvis
Tissue protruding from your vagina
Urinary problems, such as urine leakage (incontinence) or urine retention
Trouble having a bowel movement
Feeling as if you're sitting on a small ball or as if something is falling out of your vagina
Sexual concerns, such as a sensation of looseness in the tone of your vaginal tissue
Often, symptoms are less bothersome in the morning and worsen as the day goes on. When to see a doctor
See your doctor to discuss your options if signs and symptoms of uterine prolapse become bothersome and disrupt your normal activities. Causes
Uterine prolapse results from the weakening of pelvic muscles and supportive tissues. Causes of weakened pelvic muscles and tissues include:
Pregnancy
Difficult labor and delivery or trauma during childbirth
Delivery of a large baby
Being overweight or obese
Lower estrogen level after menopause
Chronic constipation or straining with bowel movements
Chronic cough or bronchitis
Repeated heavy lifting
Risk factors
Factors that can increase your risk of uterine prolapse include:
One or more pregnancies and vaginal births
Giving birth to a large baby
Increasing age
Obesity
Prior pelvic surgery
Chronic constipation or frequent straining during bowel movements
Family history of weakness in connective tissue
Being Hispanic or white
Complications
Uterine prolapse is often associated with prolapse of other pelvic organs. Weakness of connective tissue separating the bladder and vagina may cause the bladder to bulge into the vagina. Anterior prolapse is also called prolapsed bladder. Posterior vaginal prolapse (rectocele). Weakness of connective tissue separating the rectum and vagina may cause the rectum to bulge into the vagina. You might have difficulty having bowel movements. Severe uterine prolapse can displace part of the vaginal lining, causing it to protrude outside the body. Vaginal tissue that rubs against clothing can lead to vaginal sores (ulcers.) Rarely, the sores can become infected. Prevention
To reduce your risk of uterine prolapse, try to:
Perform Kegel exercises regularly. These exercises can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles — especially important after you have a baby. Treat and prevent constipation. Drink plenty of fluids and eat high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole-grain cereals. Avoid heavy lifting and lift correctly. When lifting, use your legs instead of your waist or back. Control coughing. Get treatment for a chronic cough or bronchitis, and don't smoke. Avoid weight gain. Talk with your doctor to determine your ideal weight and get advice on weight-loss strategies, if you need them.
