Utero-Vaginal Prolapse

Prevention may not always be successful. However certain measures can be taken to reduce the chances of developing utero-vaginal prolapse, or to prevent a prolapse from getting worse.

• In pregnancy: Pelvic floor exercises. (Your doctor may be able to advise you on this, or refer you to a physiotherapist).
• During labour: Avoid bearing down (pushing) before the cervix is fully dilated
• After delivery: Avoid bearing down efforts and constipation. Continue pelvic floor exercises early.
• After menopause: Hormone replacement may be helpful. (Your doctor will be able to advise you on this). Avoid prolonged standing, heavy lifting and chronic cough. Restart pelvic floor exercises daily.

What Are The Complications If Left Untreated?

These are generally preventable and occur only with longstanding untreated cases of moderate or severe utero-vaginal prolapse.

• Ulceration and infection of the cervical and vaginal skin
• Bleeding of the lower tract
• Thickening of the skin of the cervix
• Obstruction to urine flow and retention of urine leading to back pressure effects on the kidneys
• Urinary tract infection
• Worsening prolapse