Uterine prolapse/ Urinary incontinence
A uterine prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles supporting the pelvic floor organs (uterus, bladder, rectum) weaken and are unable to support the uterus. This causes the uterus to slip from its original position and drop into the vagina.
The weakening of the pelvic muscles is commonly caused by pregnancy and strain during a vaginal delivery. Women who have had multiple deliveries are at a higher risk of developing a prolapse in later years.
Depending on the severity, a uterine prolapse can present a variety of symptoms:
- Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control or urine leakage when coughing, sneezing or exerting yourself)
- Bulge or sensation of heaviness in the vaginal area
- Pelvic pressure
- Pain during sex
- Lower back pain
Treatments for uterine prolapse include lifestyle measures such as exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles, inserting a pessary to support the prolapsed tissue, or removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) for severe prolapse cases.