Can uterine prolapse be seen with the naked eye?

Written by Li Lin
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 09, 2024
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Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus descends from its normal position, falling along the vaginal opening and moving out of its normal location, with the cervix or the entire uterus reaching or completely coming out of the vaginal opening. The main causes of uterine prolapse are childbirth injuries, prolonged increased abdominal pressure, and poor development of pelvic floor tissues. In mild cases of uterine prolapse, patients mostly do not have any symptoms and the condition is only identified during a gynecological examination. However, in severe cases of uterine prolapse, patients feel a mass coming out of the vaginal opening while walking, working, or squatting, and in serious cases, the entire uterus can completely prolapse out of the vaginal opening, becoming visible to the naked eye.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can you still have children with uterine prolapse?

Most women with uterine prolapse are not affected in their ability to become pregnant and give birth normally. However, in rare cases, symptoms can be severe when women suffer from uterine prolapse, with part of the uterus protruding outside the vagina. This may cause friction with the underwear, leading to localized ulcers or even infections, causing purulent vaginal discharge or bleeding. This can affect the normal passage of sperm and impact normal pregnancy. For these women, anti-inflammatory treatment can be administered first. After healing, it generally does not affect normal conception. After conception, as the size of the uterus increases and moves from the pelvic cavity into the abdominal cavity, the symptoms of uterine prolapse tend to decrease.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the clinical manifestations of uterine prolapse?

When women experience uterine prolapse, the clinical symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition. For instance, mild uterine prolapse often does not cause any discomfort. Severe uterine prolapse, however, may be due to the pulling of the uterus, leading to a reflex tension in the surrounding ligaments and causing congestion in the pelvic area. Women may feel pain in their sacral or lower abdominal area, which intensifies with excessive fatigue or prolonged standing. Some women may also experience stress urinary incontinence or changes in bowel behavior, such as constipation.

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Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should I do if I have uterine prolapse during menstruation?

The normal position of the uterus is within the female pelvis. When a prolapse occurs, the uterus gradually descends downwards. In cases of mild to moderate uterine prolapse, since the majority of the uterus remains inside the vagina, there is no particular need for special attention during menstruation—regular care will suffice. In severe cases of uterine prolapse, the uterus might completely protrude outside the vaginal opening. In such circumstances, extra care may be needed during menstruation to prevent menstrual blood from staining undergarments. You might need to use larger sanitary pads; other than that, there is nothing particularly different that needs attention. Additionally, remember to change sanitary pads and underwear regularly to avoid potential infections.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Does postpartum constipation cause uterine prolapse?

Postpartum constipation generally does not lead to uterine prolapse. Uterine prolapse is mainly associated with women engaging in heavy physical labor, standing for long periods, or performing strenuous activities too soon after childbirth. Additionally, prolonged coughing after childbirth or severe constipation can increase abdominal pressure, which may lead to uterine prolapse. Furthermore, multiple pregnancies or improper handling during childbirth, especially in cases of difficult labor, can easily cause damage to the tissues around the uterus, including tears, which can result in uterine prolapse.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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The graded treatment for uterine prolapse is what?

According to the severity of female uterine prolapse, it can be categorized into first, second, and third degrees. For first and second degrees, non-surgical treatment methods can be used, such as the commonly practiced anal contraction exercises, which are a type of pelvic floor muscle training. The specific method involves contracting the anus for three seconds, then relaxing, and repeating this action 15 to 30 times per set. Depending on one's physical condition, two to three sets can be done each day. Generally, significant results can be seen after six to eight weeks of consistent practice. Additionally, some women who refuse surgery, such as older women, can also use a uterine pessary. Moreover, for mild or moderate uterine prolapse, treatments such as acupuncture and taking traditional Chinese medicine orally, such as Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, can be used. For severe uterine prolapse, surgery is often necessary, but the specific choice depends on various factors such as the woman's age, reproductive needs, and quality of life requirements. For example, older women in their seventies or eighties who might have poor physical condition and possibly no sexual activity might consider undergoing a vaginal closure procedure.