What is uterine prolapse? Learn about the risks and care of uterine prolapse in five minutes

Uterine prolapse is a common disease that often occurs in women who are malnourished, have given birth multiple times, or engage in physical labor. Uterine prolapse refers to the uterus descending from its normal position along the vagina, with the external cervical opening below the level of the ischial spine, or even the uterus completely protruding from the vaginal opening. It can affect women's quality of life and cause urinary incontinence, sexual intercourse pain, and other problems, so it needs to be given enough attention and attention.

The causes of uterine prolapse usually involve damage or relaxation of the uterus and its supporting structures. The following are some common causes:

1. Pregnancy and childbirth

Pregnancy and childbirth are among the most common causes of uterine prolapse. During pregnancy, the uterus enlarges, increasing pressure and tension on the uterine support tissues, and during labor, the uterus undergoes dramatic contractions and stretches that may cause stretching or damage to the uterine support structures.

2. Muscle and tissue relaxation

As we age, muscles and tissues gradually lose their elasticity. The supporting tissues of the uterus, including the cervix, pelvic floor muscles and vaginal walls, become loose and uterine prolapse is likely to occur.

3. Decreased estrogen levels

After menopause, women's estrogen levels drop, and estrogen plays an important role in maintaining the strength and elasticity of the uterine support structure. When estrogen levels drop, the uterine support tissue may become fragile and uterine prolapse may occur.

4. High abdominal pressure

Long-term chronic cough, constipation, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise can increase abdominal pressure and increase the load on the uterine support structure. High abdominal pressure can cause the uterus to shift downward, increasing the risk of uterine prolapse.

5. Genetic factors

The presence of uterine prolapse in the family may increase the risk of uterine prolapse in an individual.

Dangers of uterine prolapse:

1. Discomfort and pain

Uterine prolapse may cause pain in the lower abdomen, lower back, or pelvis, especially after physical activity or sexual intercourse. The pain and discomfort may interfere with daily life.

2. Urinary incontinence and frequent urination

Uterine prolapse may cause symptoms such as urinary incontinence, frequent urination, or an urgent need to urinate.

3. Vaginal bleeding

Uterine prolapse may cause vaginal bleeding, especially after sexual intercourse. Vaginal bleeding can be one of the early signs of uterine prolapse.

4. Mental health issues

Uterine prolapse may affect women's mental health, especially when urinary incontinence or other symptoms affect their daily life. Patients may feel embarrassed, frustrated, disappointed, etc.

Here are some tips for caring for uterine prolapse:

1. Strengthen nutrition after surgery

Uterine prolapse surgery is a relatively common gynecological surgery. After the operation, the patient needs to be given appropriate care and nutrition to promote the body's recovery and improve the body's resistance. It is recommended that the patient consume a high-protein, low-fat, low-salt diet, and increase the patient's diet of lean meat, shellfish, beans, etc. At the same time, the patient should eat more dark vegetables and fruits. These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals, which are beneficial to the patient's nutritional intake and physical recovery. At the same time, the patient should quit smoking and drinking, and avoid raw, cold, spicy and irritating foods.

2. Strengthen the pelvic floor muscles

The strength of your pelvic floor muscles is important for supporting your uterus and pelvic organs. Performing pelvic floor muscle exercises, such as Kegel exercises, can help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and reduce the risk of uterine prolapse. Consult a doctor before performing any exercise to ensure it is safe.

3. Avoid excessive exertion and heavy lifting

Excessive exertion, especially excessive abdominal pressure, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, may increase the risk of uterine prolapse. Patients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a long time to reduce pressure on the uterus and its supporting structures.

4. Maintain good bowel habits

Constipation will increase abdominal pressure and affect the support of the uterus and pelvic organs. Maintain good eating habits, consume enough fiber and water, avoid holding back bowel movements for a long time, and maintain regular bowel habits. If necessary, you can use laxatives to prevent constipation.

5. Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time

Standing or sitting for long periods of time may increase abdominal pressure. Try to avoid maintaining the same posture for a long time. Rest or change body position at appropriate times to reduce abdominal pressure and the risk of uterine prolapse.

6. Pay attention to personal hygiene

Maintain good personal hygiene to avoid infection and inflammation, clean the vulva area properly, and avoid using irritating lotions.

For patients with prolapse and infection, local cleaning is very important. Cleaning should be done regularly and daily sitz baths should be taken. Diluted potassium permanganate solution (1:5000 concentration) can be added for disinfection and antibacterial purposes. After completion, gently dry the local area with a soft, clean towel.

7. Regular review and follow-up

Regular gynecological examinations should be performed to ensure the effectiveness of treatment for uterine prolapse and to promptly detect and address recurrence or further deterioration.

I hope that through this article, everyone can have a deeper understanding of uterine prolapse and take appropriate preventive and nursing measures. It should be noted that uterine prolapse may be the result of a combination of multiple reasons, and each woman's situation is different. The views in this article only represent personal opinions, so when understanding personal risks and formulating nursing measures, it is best to consult professional doctors for their opinions and suggestions. (Cheng Liwei, Department of Gynecology, Shijiazhuang Maternal and Child Health Hospital)