Dropped Uterus

Uterine problems are common in women. When the womb or the uterus falls into the vagina, it is known as 'prolapsed uterus' or 'dropped uterus'. The condition is also called 'uterine prolapse'. It is not a life-threatening condition but a great deal of discomfort and distress can be caused due to prolapsed uterus. Normally, women face this problem after menopause. The pelvic muscles are responsible for holding the uterus in its position. If these muscles are injured or weakened, then the uterus loses the support and hence moves downward in the pelvis below its normal position. It may fall from its normal position and bulge into the vagina. Here is a list of causes of prolapsed uterus.

Causes

The main causes of weakened muscles and prolapsed uterus are:

• Pregnancy (multiple childbirths through vagina) or the trauma caused during childbirth
• The process of aging
• Excessive pelvic pressure due to constipation
• Chronic cough due to asthma and bronchitis leading to increased pressure in the abdomen
• Pelvic tumors
• Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen
• Obesity leading to excessive strain on pelvic muscles
• Decreased levels of circulating estrogen after menopause
• Weakening and loss of tissue tone after menopause
• Excessive weightlifting
• Radical surgery in the pelvic area
• Poor physical fitness due to lack of exercises
• Spinal cord condition and injury
• Genetic factors

Severity of the Situation: Grades

• Grade 1: The woman is usually not even aware of the uterine prolapse when the uterus drops slightly. No specific symptoms or discomfort is noticed. When only a small portion of the uterus descends into the upper part of the vagina, it is referred to as a mild case of prolapsed uterus.
• Grade 2: Uterus drops down into the vagina and the cervix (neck of the uterus) can be seen outside the vagina. When the uterus bulges through the vaginal opening, outside the vagina, it is considered as a serious case.
• Grade 3: Most of the uterus falls down through the vaginal opening. This severe form of dropped uterus is known as procidentia.

Symptoms

• A lump in front or back of the vagina or a lump protruding out of the vagina.
• A dragging sensation or heaviness in the pelvic area.
• The skin around the vagina may get irritated and infected.
• Abdominal discomfort
• Pelvic pain or pressure in the pelvic area.
• Difficulty in bowel movements
• Lower back pain which eases when you lie down
• Lower back pain which worsens while lifting any object.
• Frequent and painful urination
• Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding
• Excessive menstrual bleeding
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Occasional urine leakage or urine leakage while laughing, coughing or sneezing
• Difficulty while walking
• It is quite possible that no symptoms are noticed by the woman.

Treatment

Prolapsed uterus can be detected with the help of renal sonography or intravenous pyelogram (IVP). The condition is diagnosed after complete pelvic examination.

• For mild uterine prolapse (grade 1), no treatment is required.
• Overweight women need to lose weight. Proper weight loss diet and regular exercise are essential to maintain normal weight. A high fiber diet can help avoid constipation.
• Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic muscles.
• Estrogen therapy or hormone replacement therapy can help avoid weakening of muscles.
• Estrogen cream or suppository ovules or rings placed inside the vagina help restore the strength of the muscles and supporting tissues.
• A vaginal pessary helps hold the uterus in place. This supportive device can be inserted into the vagina.
• Surgery (hysterectomy) to remove the uterus and excess vaginal tissues can be performed.

As you have seen, dropped uterus is not a serious problem but at times, it can lead to serious complications. Prompt treatment is necessary to avoid further complications.