What are the symptoms of uterine prolapse?

Women who have a minor uterine prolapse may not have any symptoms. Moderate to severe prolapse may cause symptoms, such as:

• the feeling that you’re sitting on a ball
• vaginal bleeding
• increased discharge
• problems with sexual intercourse
• the uterus or cervix protruding out of the vagina
• a pulling or heavy feeling in the pelvis
• constipation or difficulty passing stool
• recurring bladder infections or difficulty emptying your bladder

Are there any risk factors of uterine prolapse?

The risk of having a prolapsed uterus increases as a woman ages and her estrogen levels decrease. Damage to pelvic muscles and tissues during pregnancy and childbirth may also lead to prolapse. Women who’ve had more than one vaginal birth or are postmenopausal are at the highest risk. Any activity that puts pressure on the pelvic muscles can increase your risk of a uterine prolapse.

Other factors that can increase your risk for the condition include:

• obesity
• chronic cough
• chronic constipation

How is this uterine prolapse diagnosed?

For a proper diagnosis, you’ll need to see a gynecologist to get a pelvic exam. This exam is used to check the condition of inside of the vagina and examine the vaginal canal and uterus.