Do you feel a dragging sensation in your lower pelvis? Noticing something bulging out through the vagina? Do you leak urine while laughing or lifting heavy weights?
These signs could point to uterine prolapse, a common yet under-discussed condition affecting women of all ages—especially those who’ve had vaginal deliveries.
The condition can severely impact your confidence, intimate life, and daily comfort. But the good news is—you don’t have to live with it silently. With the right treatment plan, prolapse can be managed or even reversed.
Globally, 50% of women who’ve had children experience some degree of pelvic organ prolapse during their lifetime. In India, rising awareness is leading more women to seek help early. Source: NCBI
Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus drops from its normal position into or out of the vaginal canal due to weak pelvic floor muscles.
Uterine prolapse is caused by stretched or weakened pelvic floor muscles that can no longer support the uterus properly.
Symptoms vary from mild discomfort to visible bulging through the vaginal opening.
Uterine prolapse is graded by how far the uterus has descended into the vaginal canal.
If left untreated, uterine prolapse can worsen and lead to complications like infections, sores, and even kidney issues.
Your gynecologist can diagnose prolapse through a physical pelvic examination and evaluate its severity.
Treatment depends on the severity, age, and reproductive plans. It can be managed surgically or non-surgically.
While not always preventable, lifestyle changes and exercises can reduce your risk of uterine prolapse.
ICD-10 Code | Description |
---|---|
N81.0 | Uterine prolapse, unspecified |
N81.1 | Cystocele (anterior vaginal wall prolapse) |
N81.2 | Incomplete uterovaginal prolapse |
N81.3 | Complete uterovaginal prolapse |
N81.4 | Uterovaginal prolapse with cystocele |
N81.6 | Rectocele (posterior vaginal wall prolapse) |
N81.9 | Female genital prolapse, unspecified |
CPT Code | Description |
---|---|
57250 | Colpopexy, abdominal approach (fixation of vaginal apex) |
57260 | Combined anterior and posterior colporrhaphy (repair for cystocele and rectocele) |
57265 | Combined anteroposterior colporrhaphy with enterocele repair |
57280 | Sacrocolpopexy, abdominal approach (often for uterine prolapse) |
57282 | Colpopexy, vaginal approach, extraperitoneal |
57283 | Colpopexy, vaginal approach, intraperitoneal |
58150 | Total abdominal hysterectomy (if performed for uterine prolapse) |
58570 | Laparoscopic total hysterectomy (for prolapse cases) |
Ans. A prolapse usually starts after pelvic muscle weakening due to childbirth, aging, or hormonal changes during menopause.
Ans. Yes, mild prolapse may improve with Kegel exercises, lifestyle changes, or a vaginal pessary prescribed by your doctor.
Ans. You may feel a bulge or heaviness in your vaginal area. However, a proper pelvic exam by a gynecologist is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Ans. The stages range from slight descent (Stage 1) to complete prolapse outside the vaginal opening (Stage 4).
Ans. Mild cases may improve with pelvic floor therapy, but moderate to severe prolapse usually requires medical intervention.
Ans. Sleeping on your back with a pillow under the knees can reduce pressure on pelvic organs.
Ans. A feeling of pelvic heaviness is a common symptom of prolapse due to weakened pelvic support structures.
Ans. Yes, some women experience discomfort or reduced sensation. Treatment can restore comfort and intimacy.
Ans. Gentle walking is beneficial. Avoid high-impact exercises like skipping unless cleared by your doctor.
Ans. Start with 10 reps, 3 times a day. Gradually increase as your pelvic muscles strengthen.
Take charge of your health today.
Book your consultation with Dr. Dimple Doshi at Vardaan Hospital, Goregaon West, Mumbai.