Uterus – Vaginal Prolapse
What is a vaginal prolapse?
A vaginal prolapse is when the fascia and ligament tissues, which help hold your pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, and rectum) in place, become torn or stretched, or if your pelvic floor muscles become weak. This can then cause your pelvic organs to bulge or sag down into the vagina. This commonly happens in young women who have recently given birth, but it can also occur after menopause or if you are overweight. The risk of a vaginal prolapse is higher if anyone in your immediate family has had one before.
What are the symptoms?
Most women will experience some form of a symptom, but it can also go unnoticed until a doctor or nurse performs a routine cervical screening test (pap smear).
If a women experiences symptoms they usually depend on the type of prolapse and how much damage has been made. They may experience:
- A heavy sensation or dragging in the vagina
- A lump bulging out of your vagina, which can either be seen or felt
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Urinary incontinence or your stream might be weak
- Urinary tract infections
- Problems emptying your bowel
What are the types of prolapses
- Uterine prolapse – Where the uterus drops down into the vagina
- Cystocele prolapse – where the pelvic organs may bulge through the front wall of the vagina
- Rectocele or entercele prolapse – where the pelvic organs may bulge through the back wall of the vagina
Can a vaginal prolapse be prevented?
Women have a chance at preventing a prolapse if they keep their pelvic floor muscles strong. With the right exercises and lifestyle habits advised from a health specialist, such as a pelvic floor physiotherapist, you can help build muscle strength in your pelvic floor and minimise the risk of a prolapse.
What is the treatment for a vaginal prolapse?
A vaginal prolapse won’t simply go away if you choose to ignore it. If you suspect you have had a prolapse, it is important to seek medical attention. Your GP will refer you to a medical specialist. Upon further investigation and examination, Dr Kothari will be able to determine if non-surgical treatments or surgery is the right approach, depending on the level of the prolapse.
If your prolapse can be treated without surgery, you may be advised on the following:
- Practicing pelvic floor muscle training - a program designed and planned to suit your individual needs
- How to adjust lifestyle changes, such as improving your diet, fluid intake, exercising and losing weight
- Setting good bowel and bladder habits to avoid straining on the toilet
- Having a pessary (a removable plastic or rubber device) measured and placed into the vagina to provide inside support for your pelvic organs
For more complicated cases of a prolapse, you may require surgery to repair or strengthen any torn or stretched tissues, or moving pelvic organs back into their original place. Dr Kothari will guide you through the most appropriate treatment option for you.