Medical References

Diseases & Conditions

Women's Health

Mental Health

Men's Health

Medical Web Links

MOL Site Map

Sites

Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news

Pelvic Floor Hernia - Uterine Prolapse

Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment for uterine prolapse depends on many things, including:

the severity of the prolapse

the severity of the symptoms

the presence of other signs and symptoms

a woman's wishes to preserve her fertility

the woman's age

Treatment options include:

pessary, a plastic doughnut-shaped device placed into the vagina to push up the uterus

round ligament suspension procedure, an operation to provide muscle support to the uterus

estrogen therapy given directly into the vagina with creams

hysterectomy, or surgery to remove the uterus

What are the side effects of the treatments?

The side effects depend on the treatment. The use of hormone replacement therapy may cause nausea, weight gain, abdominal bloating, increased vaginal discharge, and breast tenderness. After a hysterectomy a woman will need 6 to 8 weeks to recuperate. There are possible side effects with any surgery. These include bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

After surgical treatment of a prolapsed uterus, a woman should:

avoid lifting heavy objects

prevent constipation by drinking plenty of fluids, using stool softeners for a short time, and increasing her fiber intake

perform Kegel exercises daily

avoid smoking

lose weight through diet and exercise, if she is overweight

continue with hormone replacement therapy, if she was using it before surgery

avoid wearing tight girdles or other garments that put pressure on the abdomen

How is the condition monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.