Can uterine prolapse have a vaginal delivery?

Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on April 10, 2025
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Uterine prolapse does not affect the width of the soft birth canal. It is still possible to have a vaginal delivery with uterine prolapse, as any form of childbirth after a full-term pregnancy can exacerbate uterine prolapse. However, uterine prolapse is not an indication for cesarean delivery; vaginal delivery should still be attempted if possible. Forty-two days after childbirth, a routine pelvic floor examination should be carried out. If there is pelvic floor dysfunction or uterine prolapse, treatment should be administered based on the severity of the condition. Eventually, some individuals may need surgical treatment, not all can be managed conservatively.

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can you have intercourse with uterine prolapse?

Generally, it is possible, but it specifically depends on the condition of the disease. In severe cases of uterine prolapse, the entire uterus can protrude outside the vaginal opening, obstructing the passage for intercourse, making intercourse impossible. In mild cases of uterine prolapse or bulging, although it does not significantly affect intercourse, it can affect the quality of intercourse and cause abnormal sensations. Uterine prolapse is classified into three grades: first grade where the cervix is just above the hymen, second grade where both the cervix and part of the uterine body prolapse outside the vagina, and third grade where the entire uterine body is prolapsed outside the vagina. If suffering from uterine prolapse, it is recommended to seek active treatment, as early-stage uterine prolapse can be improved through physical therapy and exercise.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat mild uterine prolapse?

In cases of mild uterine prolapse, surgical treatment is generally not chosen. Instead, patients can be advised to perform anal contraction exercises. Anal contraction exercises, also known as pelvic floor muscle exercises, strengthen the muscles and fascia of the pelvic floor, enhancing its support function and alleviating the degree of uterine prolapse. Additionally, treatment methods should be selected based on the patient's age. For older patients, according to the needs of their condition, a pessary may be used to relieve symptoms.

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

There are many causes of uterine prolapse in women, for instance, the most common one occurs during pregnancy and childbirth, especially when methods such as forceps delivery are used, which may damage the pelvic floor muscles or injure the vaginal wall. This causes damage to the pelvic floor muscles, and if not properly recovered postpartum, it can lead to prolapse. Additionally, some women might suffer from conditions like chronic pharyngitis, chronic bronchitis, long-term coughing, or have liver diseases or malignant tumors leading to a significant build-up of ascites. Frequent heavy physical labor or even simple obesity can increase abdominal pressure, causing uterine prolapse.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to self-check for uterine prolapse

Uterine prolapse can be self-detected. If you feel a swelling in the genital area, or something protruding by itself that disappears when lying flat, there is a high probability of uterine prolapse or significant bulging of the anterior or posterior vaginal wall. This method can be used for self-examination. It is best to visit a hospital for an annual gynecological check-up and ultrasound. Through a gynecological internal examination, the doctor can indirectly assess the condition of the cervix. Therefore, mild uterine prolapse is generally not detectable by oneself, and such conditions generally require a gynecological internal examination in a hospital for a definitive diagnosis. Only in cases of severe prolapse will abnormalities be noticeable.

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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.