How to check for uterine prolapse?

Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on December 21, 2024
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Uterine prolapse can be assessed through a vaginal examination to determine the degree of prolapse. Uterine prolapse can be divided into three grades: First-degree mild, where the external os of the cervix is less than 4 cm from the hymenal ring and has not yet reached the hymenal ring; first-degree severe, where the cervix has reached the hymenal ring, and the cervix can be seen at the vaginal opening, which constitutes the first degree. Second-degree mild occurs when the cervix prolapses out of the vaginal opening, but the uterus remains inside the vagina, while in severe cases, part of the uterus prolapses out of the vaginal opening. Third-degree prolapse involves both the cervix and the uterus protruding completely outside the vaginal opening. Once uterine prolapse occurs, it is necessary to seek timely medical treatment at a hospital.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Causes of uterine prolapse

Uterine prolapse is a common gynecological condition, primarily caused by damage to the pelvic floor tissues during childbirth. As the fetus descends during labor, it can damage the pelvic floor muscles and fascia, leading to a reduction in their supportive strength, which in turn causes the prolapse of the uterus and vagina. Additionally, aging is another main cause of uterine prolapse. As age increases, relaxation of the cervix, various uterine ligaments, and pelvic floor fascial muscles also contribute significantly to uterine prolapse.

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Written by Li Lin
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat uterine prolapse and urinary incontinence?

Uterine prolapse is mostly caused by childbirth injuries, long-term increase in abdominal pressure, or the degenerative changes and poor development of pelvic floor tissues. Mild uterine prolapse generally does not have noticeable symptoms. Severe uterine prolapse often accompanies anterior vaginal wall prolapse, which can lead to urinary retention and stress urinary incontinence, commonly referred to as leakage of urine. In cases of uterine prolapse with urine leakage, treatment requires enhanced nutrition, appropriate arrangement of rest and work, avoidance of heavy physical labor, and maintaining smooth bowel movements. Active treatment of chronic negative pressure increase diseases, such as constipation and chronic cough, is necessary. When uterine prolapse results in urine leakage, surgical treatment is generally required. Pelvic floor tissue repair is done, and in severe cases, hysterectomy is necessary along with the repair of the anterior and posterior vaginal walls for effective treatment.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should I do if I have uterine prolapse?

The treatment of uterine prolapse needs to be determined based on the degree of prolapse and whether the patient has any clinical symptoms. If the prolapse is mild and the patient does not display obvious clinical symptoms, conservative treatment is recommended. Conservative treatment mainly involves pelvic floor muscle training to strengthen the pelvic floor support and facilitate the repair of the prolapsed uterus. If the prolapse is severe and is accompanied by serious clinical manifestations, surgical treatment may be considered.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can pelvic organ prolapse be detected by ultrasound?

For uterine prolapse, ultrasound examination mostly cannot detect it. The preferred method of examination for uterine prolapse is gynecological examination. Gynecological examination can observe the position of the vaginal cervix, effectively assess uterine prolapse, and determine its grade. This helps to clarify whether it is a prolapse of the anterior uterine wall, the posterior uterine wall, or the uterus itself. Based on the results of the examination, the next step in the treatment plan can be formulated. In cases of severe uterovaginal prolapse, surgical treatment may be necessary when required.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to deal with second-degree uterine prolapse?

Once a second-degree uterine prolapse is detected, it is also necessary to determine the treatment plan based on the patient's age and the presence or absence of clinical symptoms. If the patient is young and without apparent clinical symptoms, conservative treatment methods can be chosen. However, if the symptoms are severe and affect the patient's daily life, surgical treatment is needed. The specific surgical treatment plan should also take into account the patient's wishes.