Uterine prolapse
Symptoms, assessment, options and preparation for your visit.
Illustrative imageWeakening of the structures supporting the uterus can allow it to descend into the vagina. Pressure or a noticeable bulge is assessed alongside the degree of prolapse.
Symptoms and starting the conversation
When symptoms started, how often they recur and their effect on everyday life matter. The examples below are topics you can discuss; they do not establish a diagnosis on their own.
- Dragging sensation
- A vaginal bulge
- Pressure increasing while standing
How is assessment approached?
Examination considers the uterus, vaginal walls and other supporting structures together. Bladder and bowel symptoms, previous surgery and future pregnancy wishes affect planning.
Which options are discussed?
Observation, lifestyle measures, physiotherapy, vaginal support pessaries or surgery may be considered. Removing the uterus is not required in every case; suitable approaches are discussed after examination.
Risks, limitations and follow-up
Discuss care requirements and limitations as well as expected benefits. Pessaries require suitability assessment and follow-up. Surgical counselling includes bleeding, infection, new or persistent urinary symptoms, pain and possible recurrence. Outcomes should not be promised without relating symptoms to examination findings.
Preparing for your visit
Note when symptoms started, their triggers and their effect on your life. Bring available examination or operation reports and a medication list. Prepare questions about options, the purpose of tests, benefits and risks. Do not enter health records into appointment or contact forms.
Uterine preservation and future pregnancy
Uterine prolapse does not automatically require hysterectomy. Uterus-preserving and hysterectomy-based approaches are compared according to support defects, other disease and preferences. Future pregnancy plans also affect timing.
A pessary or pelvic floor support can reduce symptoms in selected people. Examination stage alone does not decide surgery; the impact of a bulge and urinary and bowel function matter too.
Frequently asked questions
Must the uterus be removed for uterine prolapse?
No. Suitability for uterine-preserving options is considered alongside associated uterine conditions, pregnancy wishes and personal priorities.
Can I diagnose myself using this page?
No. Similar symptoms may have different causes. This information helps you prepare for consultation; individual diagnosis and care require assessment.
Make your plan clear.
- Describe how pressure or a bulge changes through the day.
- Ask how observation, support devices and surgery differ for you.
- Discuss an individual plan for daily activities and follow-up.
Follow-up, care and return to everyday activities depend on assessment and the approach chosen. Before leaving, clarify the next step and how to contact the clinic.
Prepare your own list.
Select topics, write your notes in the fields below and download your personal preparation list as a PDF.
Your notes stay on this page; they are not sent to the clinic or saved. They are cleared when you close the page. The PDF may contain personal information; keep it on your own device.