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How to Prevent Uterine Prolapse?

By October 27, 2017 - 6:46am

What is uterine prolapse?
Almost every woman knows what a uterine prolapse is or has heard about it. A uterine prolapse actually is a vaginal hernia, occurring when the vaginal walls become loose. In these cases, when the vaginal walls are looser than normal, the uterus sags or slips from its normal position, dropping partly into the vagina. There are two types of uterine prolapse, a complete and incomplete uterine prolapse.

The most common type is the incomplete uterine prolapse which is characterized by a drop or sagging of only a part of the uterus into the vagina. On the other hand, the complete uterine prolapse is the most severe type of uterine prolapsed. When the uterus completely drops from its normal position into the vagina and even parts of the uterus can drop out of the vagina as well.

If uterine prolapse occurs, a pressure on the pelvic organs, usually on the bladder and bowel are common. This lead to problems while emptying the bladder or the bowel. Pain and discomfort are also common affecting the pelvic floor, the lower part of the abdomen and the lower back. Vaginal discharges, bladder infections, involuntary urination, frequent and urgent need to urinate and even constipation are common sings.

They are common signs and symptoms that women with a uterine prolapse have to deal. Painful sexual intercourse is also a common problem and in cases of complete uterine prolapse sexual intercourse is even impossible.

What leads to uterine prolapse?
Women are more likely to deal with a uterine prolapse as they get older. A decrease in the estrogen levels which helps keeps the pelvic muscles strong is an important factor contributing to uterine prolapse. Other factors that contribute to uterine prolapse include damage to the pelvic muscles and surrounding tissue. This is during pregnancy and childbirth, obesity, chronic constipation, chronic coughing, etc.

Having had more than one vaginal birth, as well as, being in the postmenopausal period increases the risk of uterine prolapse significantly. Lifting heavy things can lead to uterine prolapse as well.

How is uterine prolapse diagnosed?
Uterine prolapse is usually diagnosed during a pelvic examination. This is with the help of a device known as speculum which is inserted into the vagina in order to evaluate and examine the vaginal walls, the vaginal canal, the cervix and the uterus.

How is uterine prolapse treated?
When it comes to the treatment of uterine prolapse, it can be divided into non – surgical and surgical treatment.

Non – surgical treatment, often referred to as conservative treatment includes:
• Performing Kegel exercises regularly to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and the vaginal muscles,
• Losing weight in cases of being overweight or obese,
• Taking estrogen replacement therapy during menopausal period,
• Wearing a pessary, a device inserted into the vagina to help stabilize the uterus and the cervix,
• Avoid heavy lifting,
• Regular physical activity, etc.

In severe cases of uterine prolapse when conservative treatment is of no help, surgical treatment is required. Surgical treatment is usually necessary in cases of a complete uterine prolapsed. It includes uterine suspension or a complete removal of the uterus, a surgical procedure known as a hysterectomy. Uterine suspension, on the other hand, is a surgical procedure.

It is characterized by a repositioning of the uterus in its normal position by reattaching the pelvic ligaments. Surgical treatment is very effective. However, it is not recommended for women who tend to have children in the future. Pregnancy and childbirth itself can undo the surgical repairs of the uterus and lead again to uterine prolapse.

How to prevent uterine prolapse?
Uterine prolapse, as mentioned is a medical condition affecting women as they get older. Even though certain measures during the lifetime can help prevent or postpone it, uterine prolapse can’t be prevented in every situation.

Here are some tips on how to prevent uterine prolapse:
• Estrogen replacement therapy during menopausal period,
• Regular physical activity,
• Regular Kegel exercises which will help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles,
• A healthy weight,
• Have a healthy diet including high – fiber foods and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation,
• Avoid heavy lifting and if you need to lift heavy objects, lift them correctly, etc.

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