Can postpartum constipation cause uterine prolapse?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on January 29, 2025
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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 Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to check for uterine prolapse?

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 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 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 Li Li Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What is a good treatment for uterine prolapse?

Generally, mild uterine prolapse does not have a significant impact on the body and can continue to be observed. It is also important to frequently perform anal contraction exercises to prevent the worsening of uterine prolapse. If uterine prolapse severely affects sexual life and normal daily activities, surgical treatment should be considered. This can include repair of the anterior and posterior vaginal wall, or partial cervical resection combined with repair of the anterior and posterior vaginal wall. If necessary, consider performing a vaginal hysterectomy. Regularly practicing yoga at home and running daily if possible can effectively enhance body resistance and also prevent severe uterine prolapse.

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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.