A prolapsed uterus, which occurs when the muscles that support the womb become too weak to hold it in place, can present with several symptoms. Signs of a prolapsed uterus include pressure and pain in the waist area and issues with urinating and defecating. In some cases, a prolapsed uterus can cause a feeling of looseness in the vagina, pain during intercourse, and an overall sensation that something is about to fall out of the vaginal opening. In severe instances, signs of a prolapsed uterus can include tissue from the uterus sticking out of the vaginal opening or the uterus coming out entirely.
When the pelvic floor muscles become weak, either due to trauma, childbirth or a lack of estrogen, the uterus can begin to move into the vaginal canal. This can cause noticeable pressure in the pelvic region, with some women reporting a feeling of sitting on a small, round object. Due to the inability of the muscles to support the uterus and surrounding area, signs of a prolapsed uterus can also include pain in the lower back, especially when standing. Occasionally, this can make it difficult for a patient to walk.
As the uterus moves into the vaginal canal, issues related to going to the bathroom can occur. Some women experience a frequent urge to urinate, while others have difficulty relieving themselves. Signs of a prolapsed uterus can also involve abnormal bowel movements. In some cases, a patient may experience rectal urgency, characterized by a feeling of always having to go to the restroom. Depending on how far down the uterus has traveled, some patients may have severe constipation.
While the pelvic muscles weaken, a woman may experience a sensation of looseness in the vaginal tissue. This can make intercourse uncomfortable or even painful, especially if the uterus is close to the vaginal opening. Women with signs of a prolapsed uterus often report an overall feeling of something falling out of the vaginal opening; this is similar to the sensation many women experience during pregnancy right before they go into labor. As the uterus is slowly moving out of the body, this sensation is one of the most common signs of a prolapsed uterus.
When a prolapsed uterus is not diagnosed in time, a woman may be able to feel the uterus inside of the vaginal opening; it can also become visible outside of the body. These signs of a prolapsed uterus indicate that the condition is serious, and the uterus may leave the body entirely. This stage, known as a complete uterine prolapse, can be extremely severe. When this health issue is identified in time, a supportive device or surgery can provide enough support to the uterus to keep it in place.
