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 Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Uterine prolapse is treated in the Department of Gynecology.

Uterine prolapse requires registration with the gynecology department as it is a type of gynecological disease. There are many causes of uterine prolapse, including pregnancy and childbirth. Particularly, vaginal delivery before childbirth or difficult deliveries involving suction can weaken the supporting strength of the pelvic fascia, ligaments, and muscles due to excessive stretching, leading to uterine prolapse. Additionally, aging, especially post-menopause, can cause an atrophy of the supporting structures, also leading to uterine prolapse. Other causes include chronic cough, abdominal effusion, and obesity, which can all lead to uterine prolapse. Therefore, once uterine prolapse occurs, it is necessary to promptly visit a hospital for examination to determine the extent of the prolapse, and treatment should be conducted according to the examination results.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Can postpartum constipation cause uterine prolapse?

If there is severe constipation after childbirth, and it is not corrected in time, long-term constipation can lead to uterine prolapse in women. Postpartum constipation increases abdominal pressure, which affects the recovery of pelvic floor muscles, causing the loss of support in the pelvic floor muscles and thus leading to uterine prolapse. However, the main factor contributing to uterine prolapse is not constipation but the damage caused by childbirth, which is the primary cause. After childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles are weakened. Whether standing, bearing weight, or holding breath for a long period, thereby increasing abdominal pressure, can lead to the inability of the pelvic floor tissues to support and stabilize the internal organs of the pelvis, resulting in a prolapse.

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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 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 Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should I do if I have uterine prolapse during menstruation?

The normal position of the uterus is within the female pelvis. When a prolapse occurs, the uterus gradually descends downwards. In cases of mild to moderate uterine prolapse, since the majority of the uterus remains inside the vagina, there is no particular need for special attention during menstruation—regular care will suffice. In severe cases of uterine prolapse, the uterus might completely protrude outside the vaginal opening. In such circumstances, extra care may be needed during menstruation to prevent menstrual blood from staining undergarments. You might need to use larger sanitary pads; other than that, there is nothing particularly different that needs attention. Additionally, remember to change sanitary pads and underwear regularly to avoid potential infections.