A prolapsed uterus, which occurs when the muscles that support the uterus become too weak to hold it in place, can have a number of symptoms. Signs of a prolapsed uterus include pressure and pain in the waist area and problems with urination and bowel movements. In some cases, this problem can cause a loose feeling in the vagina, pain during intercourse, and a general feeling that something is about to fall out of the vaginal opening. In severe cases, the uterine tissue may bulge out of the vaginal opening or the uterus may come out entirely.
When the pelvic floor muscles weaken, whether due to trauma, childbirth, or lack of estrogen, the uterus can begin to move toward the vaginal canal. This can cause noticeable pressure on the pelvic region, with some women reporting that they feel like sitting on a small, round object. Due to the inability of the muscles to support the uterus and the surrounding area, the lower back may hurt, especially when standing. Occasionally this can make it difficult for a patient to walk.
As the uterus moves into the vaginal canal, problems related to going to the bathroom can occur. Some women experience a frequent urge to urinate, while others have difficulty relieving themselves. A woman may also have abnormal bowel movements. In some cases, she may experience rectal urgency, characterized by the feeling of always having to go to the bathroom. Depending on how far she has traveled through the uterus, some patients may have severe constipation.
If a woman experiences a loose feeling in the vaginal tissue, it can make intercourse uncomfortable or even painful, especially if the uterus is close to the vaginal opening. Women often report a general feeling that something is falling out of the vaginal opening; This is similar to the sensation that many women experience during pregnancy just before labor begins.
When a prolapsed uterus is not diagnosed early, a woman can feel the uterus within the vaginal opening; It can also become visible outside the body. These signs indicate that the condition is serious and that the uterus may leave the body completely. This stage, known as complete uterine prolapse, can be extremely serious. When this health problem is identified early, a supportive device or surgery can provide enough support to the uterus to hold it in place.