Uterine Prolapse Treatment

Uterine prolapse is the condition in which the uterus gradually moves down from its normal position. Normally supported by muscles, connective tissues, and pelvic bones, the uterus may sag as a result of the weakening or dysfunction of these support structures. Uterine prolapse is more common in women who have given birth, entered menopause, or whose pelvic floor muscles have weakened due to heavy physical activity.

What Causes Uterine Prolapse?

There may be many causes of uterine prolapse. Some of these causes are:

• Difficult births: Pelvic muscles and connective tissues can be exposed to great pressure during normal birth. Difficult births can weaken these structures and cause the uterus to sag down.
• Advanced age: Muscles and connective tissues lose their elasticity as we age, which can lead to uterine prolapse.
• Having multiple births: Giving birth to a large baby or giving birth more than once can cause permanent weakening of the uterine support tissues.
• Menopause: The decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to weakening of the connective tissues and sagging of the uterus.
• Chronic constipation or chronic cough: These conditions, which increase intra-abdominal pressure, can cause the uterus to push downward.
• Excessive weight: Obesity can trigger uterine prolapse by creating extra pressure on the pelvic muscles.
• Family history: Genetic factors can also increase the risk of uterine prolapse.

Uterine Prolapse Symptoms

Uterine prolapse symptoms may vary from person to person and may vary depending on the degree of prolapse. Common symptoms include:

• Lower back and groin pain that increases in intensity during the day
• Experiencing pain, aching or discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Urinary incontinence or difficulty urinating
• Increased vaginal discharge
• A feeling of tissue protruding from the vagina (in advanced prolapses)

These symptoms can reduce the patient's daily quality of life and lead to more serious health problems in the future.

 

How is Uterine Prolapse Treated?

 

Does Uterine Prolapse Affect Sexuality?

Uterine prolapse can negatively affect sexual life. The change in the position of the uterus can cause pain during sexual intercourse or discomfort in the vaginal area. In addition, conditions such as vaginal dryness, weakening of the pelvic muscles and the uterus protruding from the vagina can cause sexual reluctance.

Therefore, it is important for women who are suspected of having uterine prolapse to consult a gynecologist to evaluate treatment options.

How is Uterine Prolapse Treated?

The treatment method for uterine prolapse is determined depending on the patient's age, degree of prolapse, fertility plan and general health status. Treatment methods are as follows:

1. Exercise and Supportive Treatments

• Kegel exercises may be recommended to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles in mild uterine prolapse.
• Physical therapy methods that strengthen the pelvic muscles may be applied.
• Uterine support devices (use of a pessary) may be placed inside the vagina to maintain the position of the uterus.

2. Laser Uterine Prolapse Treatment

• Laser treatment can be used to relieve uterine prolapse by tightening and strengthening the pelvic tissues.
• The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes and patients can immediately return to their daily lives.
• It is an innovative method that does not require surgery, is comfortable and does not require a recovery period.

3. Uterine Prolapse Surgery

• Uterine Suspension Surgery: It is the process of repairing the tissues supporting the uterus or supporting them with synthetic materials. It is especially preferred for young women who want to have children.
• Uterine Removal Surgery (Hysterectomy): In severe uterine prolapse, especially in women who have entered menopause and do not have a fertility plan, the uterus may be completely removed. It can be performed by closed methods (laparoscopic) or vaginally.

How Long Does Uterine Prolapse Surgery Take?

Uterine prolapse surgeries performed with closed methods usually take 1 to 2 hours. This period may be slightly longer in open surgeries. Patients usually stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after the surgery and recover within an average of 2 to 4 weeks.

Things to Consider After Uterine Prolapse Treatment

There are some important points that patients should pay attention to after treatment or surgery:

• Carrying heavy loads and strenuous physical activities should be avoided for the period specified by the doctor.
• Exercises that strengthen the pelvic muscles should be done regularly.
• Sexual intercourse should be stopped for a while during the recovery process.
• Attention should be paid to the hygiene of the stitch area after the surgery.
• To avoid constipation, fibrous foods should be consumed and plenty of water should be drunk.

The doctor will provide detailed information to the patient about the recovery process.