Uterine prolapse

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Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus slips from its normal position and passes down into the vagina. This happens because the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments get stretched and are no longer able to support the uterus. Though it can occur in women of any age, postmenopausal women who have had one or more vaginal deliveries are more prone to uterine prolapse.

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Symptoms of uterine prolapse:

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Very mild stages of uterine prolapse may not cause any signs and symptoms. However, if the prolapse is moderate or severe, the following symptoms may be observed:

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•        Heavy sensation in the pelvis.
•        Vaginal bleeding or increased vaginal discharge.
•        Pain or difficulty during intercourse.
•        Recurring bladder infections.
•        Feeling of something falling out of the vagina.
•        Feeling of sitting on a ball or some object.
•        Urinary incontinence.
•        Difficulty in bowel movements.
•        Protruding tissue from the vagina.

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Causes:

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As mentioned above, the primary reason for uterine prolapse is the weakening of pelvic muscles and supporting tissues. This may occur due to the following reasons:

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•        Pregnancy, especially vaginal child delivery.
•        Delivery of a large sized baby.

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•        Obesity.
•        A chronic cough or bronchitis.
•        Lifting heavy weight regularly.
•        Trauma or difficulty during childbirth.
•        Lower estrogen levels after menopause.
•        Chronic constipation.

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Certain risk factors may increase the chances of uterine prolapse. Some of the risk factors are:

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•        Increasing age.
•        Multiple deliveries.
•        Prior pelvic surgery.
•        Genetic causes.

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Women of certain races, especially Caucasian and Hispanic, are also at a higher risk of uterine prolapse. Uterine prolapse can also cause complications like cystocele (bladder bulging into the vagina) and rectocele (rectum bulging into the vagina). In some cases, when the uterus protrudes from the vagina, ulcers are formed due to rubbing with the vagina, which may also get infected.

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Prevention:

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Since numerous factors can cause uterine prolapse, it may not always be unavoidable, but certain steps can definitely reduce the risk:

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•        Kegel exercises: these exercises strengthen the pelvic muscles and are very easy to perform. Regularly doing kegel exercises reduces the risk of uterine prolapse.
•        Eating high fiber foods and keeping the body hydrated also reduces the risk.
•        Avoid smoking, especially if you have a chronic cough or bronchitis.
•        Seek treatment for conditions that put pressure on the pelvis (like chronic constipation and chronic cough).
•        Avoid obesity and focus on a healthy and well-balanced diet.
•        Avoid lifting heavy weights regularly as it increases the chances of uterine prolapse.

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Diagnosis:

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A doctor or gynecologist can diagnose the condition by a simple pelvic exam. A device called speculum is inserted inside the vagina, which enables the doctor to examine the vaginal canal and the uterus. After careful analysis, the doctor can determine the degree and extent of prolapse and recommend the treatment accordingly.

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Treatment:

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Mild cases of uterine prolapse do not necessarily require any sort of treatment. Some general guidelines like maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding lifting heavy objects, kegel exercises etc. are sufficient to keep the condition in control. However, if the condition is moderate or extreme, the doctor may recommend one of the following treatment methods:

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•        Pessary: it is a plastic or a rubber ring inserted into the vagina to support the tissues.
•        Vaginal estrogen may be given as it improves the strength and regeneration capabilities of vaginal tissues. However, it is not a complete treatment in itself and is usually given to complement other methods of treatment.

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If the condition is extreme, surgical treatment might be done. The aim of the surgery can be:

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•        Repairing of weakened pelvic floor tissues by grafting tissue or synthetic material to weakened pelvic floor structures, or
•        Hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus and is done only in very extreme conditions.

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The surgeries can be performed using minimally invasive methods (laparoscopy). Usually, surgical methods are avoided in women who plan to get pregnant again.

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Cloudnine is one of the best maternity hospitals in dealing with conditions like uterine prolapse. Our expert team of best gynecologists and highly qualified specialists are well experienced in dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of uterine prolapse. Our services include laparoscopy, hysterectomy, treatment for urinary incontinence, fibroids, uterine prolapse, and various other similar conditions.

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At Cloudnine hospitals, not only we provide you with the best possible treatment and care, but also focus on preventive measures which are necessary to combat conditions like uterine prolapse.

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Must read - What are some of the female genital problems and injuries?

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Want to consult the best gynecologists in India? Please find the links below.

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1. Best Gynecologists in Bangalore
2. Best Gynecologists in Chennai
3. Best Gynecologists in Mumbai
4. Best Gynecologists in Pune
5. Best Gynecologists in Chandigarh
6. Best Gynecologists in Gurgaon
7. Best Gynecologists in Noida

Want to consult the best Maternity Packages in India? Please find the links below.

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1. Best Maternity Packages in Bangalore
2. Best Maternity Packages in Chennai
3. Best Maternity Packages in Mumbai
4. Best Maternity Packages in Pune
5. Best Maternity Packages in Chandigarh
6. Best Maternity packages in Gurgaon
7. Best Maternity Packages in Noida