Overview
Uterine prolapse is when the womb slips down from its normal position into the vagina because the muscles and ligaments that support it have weakened. It is common after childbirth and around and after menopause. Mild prolapse may cause little trouble, while a more marked one gives a dragging feeling, a bulge, and problems with urination or bowels. Pelvic floor exercises help mild cases; a supportive device (pessary) or surgery is used for more troublesome prolapse.
Symptoms
- A dragging or heavy feeling in the pelvis
- A sensation or visible bulge of something coming down in the vagina
- Discomfort that worsens through the day or on standing
- Difficulty passing urine or stools, or leaking urine
- Discomfort during intercourse
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for a dragging feeling, a vaginal bulge, or urinary or bowel problems — pelvic floor exercises and other treatments help.
Causes
Weakening of the pelvic floor from childbirth, ageing and menopause, chronic coughing or straining, heavy lifting and being overweight.