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 Li Hu Chen
Imaging Center
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Can a uterine prolapse be detected with an ultrasound?

Uterine prolapse is generally not diagnosed through ultrasound, as the standard for diagnosing uterine prolapse is a gynecological exam. During the gynecological examination, the level to which the cervix has descended is observed, whether it is in the middle of the vagina or has reached the vaginal opening, and in severe cases of uterine prolapse, the cervix can protrude out of the vaginal opening. Of course, if there is uterine prolapse, it can also be detected during an ultrasound, where the significantly lower position of the uterus is evident. However, in reality, to diagnose uterine prolapse, an ultrasound is not strictly necessary; a simple gynecological exam can suffice for diagnosis.

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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 Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What does a uterine prolapse feel like to the touch?

Under normal circumstances, the uterus of a woman is located deep in the pelvic cavity and is usually not palpable through the abdomen. When a woman has a mild uterine prolapse, the body of the uterus cannot be felt at the vulva either. It is only when a woman experiences moderate to severe uterine prolapse, with part or the entire body of the uterus protruding outside the vagina, that it becomes palpable to the touch. The exposed part can cause local hyperplasia, ulceration and other phenomena due to friction with undergarments, giving a feeling of enlargement upon touch. During gynecological examinations, it can be observed that most women with uterine prolapse have relatively lax vaginal walls. When these women cough, there is a noticeable downward movement of the cervix, which impacts the finger, and the entire cervix may appear enlarged and thickened.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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How to check for uterine prolapse after childbirth

During routine postnatal checks after natural childbirth, it is important to evaluate the recovery of pelvic floor function, including checking for the presence and severity of uterine prolapse. Uterine prolapse can be assessed in the following ways: First, a gynecological examination can be conducted. Through this examination, the condition of the uterine prolapse and the position of the cervix can be clearly identified and staged. Second, performing a perineal ultrasound can generally assess the condition of uterine prolapse and the state of pelvic floor function. Third, in cases of severe uterine prolapse, it is also necessary to perform a urinary system examination, such as urodynamic testing, because uterine prolapse often occurs simultaneously with bladder prolapse.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
43sec home-news-image

Can an ultrasound detect uterine prolapse?

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.