Vaginal / uterine prolapse

Vaginal prolapse happens when the muscles that support the organs in a woman's pelvis weaken. This weakening allows the uterus, urethra, bladder, or rectum to droop down into the vagina.

Causes

Prolapse results from the weakening of pelvic muscles and supportive tissues. This can be caused by:

• Pregnancy

• Difficult labour and delivery or trauma during childbirth

• Delivery of a large baby

• Being overweight

• Lower oestrogen levels after menopause

• Chronic constipation or straining with bowel movements

• Chronic cough

• Repeated heavy lifting

treatments

• Lifestyle changes

• Pelvic floor exercises

• Hormone treatment

• Vaginal pessaries

• Surgery