Prolapsed Uterus

Women’s Pelvic Surgery, LLC

Urogynecologists located in Hackensack, NJ & New York, NY

When the connective tissue and muscles of the pelvic floor can no longer support the uterus, it descends, and sometimes even protrudes, through the vagina. At Women’s Pelvic Surgery of North Jersey, urogynecologist Dr. Khashayar Shakiba and Dr. Kateryna Kolesnikova is an expert at helping women with uterine prolapse. If you live in Hackensack, New Jersey, or the surrounding communities, call his office or book online to learn more about your options for uterine prolapse treatment.

Prolapsed Uterus Q & A

What is uterine prolapse?

When the uterus drops into the central opening of the vagina, it’s referred to as being “prolapsed.” Women who have stage 1 prolapse have a slight drop and usually no symptoms. If you have phase III or stage IV prolapse, however, you may see the uterus protrude through the vagina and experience severe discomfort.

What increases the risk of developing uterine prolapse?

Uterine prolapse risk tends to increase with age, especially if you had at least one vaginal birth. Other risk factors include:

  • Being overweight or obese
  • Having had multiple births
  • Experiencing a chronic cough or constipation that causes straining

What are the symptoms of uterine prolapse?

Mild uterine prolapse may have no symptoms. But as you reach a more severe degree of prolapse, you might experience the following:

  • Pelvic pulling or feelings of heaviness
  • Discomfort during intercourse
  • Urinary leakage
  • Lower back pain
  • Sensations of sitting on a ball
  • Vaginal bleeding and discharge

How is a prolapsed uterus treated?

If you have any symptoms of prolapse or feel the uterus protruding from the vagina, get evaluated by Dr. Shakiba. He can offer a pessary, or rubber device inserted into the vagina to uphold the uterus. You’ll get temporary relief from your symptoms with this intervention but must plan for frequent follow-ups to clean the device and check its integrity.

Surgery is the most permanent and effective treatment for uterine prolapse. Dr. Shakiba uses minimally invasive robotic surgery for correction of all pelvic organ prolapse, including uterine prolapse. One option is a sacrocolpopexy, in which a surgical mesh or other repair is used to place your organs back in the right spot and relieve your symptoms.

Another option for treatment is a colpocleisis, where he shortens the vaginal canal by sewing together the front and back walls of the vagina, so it better supports and holds up the uterus.

Both surgeries are performed using the da VinciⓇ robotic system, which involves tiny incisions and faster recovery.

To learn more about options for uterine prolapse treatment, call Women’s Pelvic Surgery of North Jersey or book an appointment online.