Can an ultrasound detect uterine prolapse?

Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on January 07, 2025
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Uterine prolapse cannot be detected through an ultrasound, because during the ultrasound when it is necessary to hold urine, the uterus is lifted, so the degree and severity of uterine prolapse cannot be determined by this method. Uterine prolapse can be diagnosed by a gynecologist's examination, which can also determine the severity of the prolapse. Treatment methods should be determined based on the severity of the prolapse and the symptoms of the patient. Mild uterine prolapse might recover through treating the underlying disease and exercising. However, uterine prolapse of second degree or higher must be treated surgically to be restored to the normal position.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Does cesarean delivery easily cause uterine prolapse?

After a cesarean section, there is also a certain chance of uterine prolapse occurring. The occurrence of uterine prolapse is mainly related to the number of childbirths, the size of the fetus during childbirth, and factors such as whether there were difficulties during delivery or the use of vaginal delivery assistance. Cesarean section can to some extent reduce the incidence of uterine prolapse. Cesarean delivery can improve or avoid conditions such as uterine prolapse and bladder protrusion, and other pelvic organ prolapse diseases. However, this practice is not advocated and should only be performed in necessary cases. Natural childbirth is still recommended as the best method. If pelvic floor dysfunction occurs, repair can be conducted after childbirth.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What causes uterine prolapse?

The most common causes of uterine prolapse can be categorized into three types. The first type is childbirth injury, which is the main cause of uterine prolapse. During childbirth, especially with vaginal surgical assistance or prolonged second stage of labor, uterine prolapse can occur. The second cause is long-term increased intra-abdominal pressure, such as chronic coughing, habitual constipation, prolonged standing, or weightlifting. These factors can contribute to uterine prolapse. The third type involves poor development or degenerative changes in the pelvic tissues. This mainly refers to uterine prolapse due to congenital deficiencies in pelvic floor development. Generally, childbirth injuries are the most common cause.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can you run with a prolapsed uterus?

Uterine prolapse is classified into mild, moderate, and severe degrees. Patients with uterine prolapse are advised against running and standing for extended periods. Constipation can exacerbate uterine prolapse, thus it is also generally advised against running or standing for long durations for those affected. Patients with uterine prolapse should certainly seek hospital treatment suited to their specific condition. Mild prolapse can be managed with a pessary or simply with rest and observation. For moderate to severe uterine prolapse, surgical options such as ligament suspension procedures can be considered. In severe cases, such as third-degree uterine prolapse, a vaginal hysterectomy might be performed as a treatment. Therefore, it is generally recommended that patients with uterine prolapse avoid running.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How long after natural childbirth is it easy for uterine prolapse to occur?

In clinical practice, it is common to see cases of uterine prolapse after natural childbirth. This is mainly because during pregnancy, the uterus is prone to various downward pressures. If the body has some imperfections in function, this can lead to uterine prolapse. After childbirth, some women may experience uterine prolapse as soon as one month, or even ten days or eight days postpartum. However, due to the increasing awareness and importance placed on postnatal confinement after natural childbirth, the incidence of uterine prolapse is decreasing. It is advised that women should rest during confinement and avoid heavy physical labor.

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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.