As we may all know, our uterus sits in our abdomen supported by various muscles & ligaments. With age comes a reduction in our oestrogen hormone, and with the wear and tear we have placed on these muscles (eg through chronic strain, and pregnancy/birth), some women may experience a slackening of these muscles and ligaments, which in turn causes a prolapse of the uterus.
Straining your pelvic/uterine muscles can come from a variety of causes. Obesity, constipation or strain from the pressure of chronic coughing can be to blame. On very rare occasions a prolapse may occur after a severe and prolonged birth.
It is therefore imperative that while we have the opportunity (ie NOW), we look after our pelvic floor and strengthen the muscles in that area. I have written about pelvic floor care in an earlier article. There were also some tips on reducing the strain from constipation by learning to sit on the toilet properly. If you are concerned, a physiotherapist may also help.
Drinking more water and making some changes in your diet will help to reduce the pressure and strain of constipation. Other lifestyle changes that will help to reduce your risk of straining your pelvic area are to reduce your weight (if you are overweight or obese), and to cease smoking (as this can contribute to a chronic cough). Lifting heavy objects will also increase the pressure in your abdomen and should be avoided.
If you think a prolapse may be a problem for you, you may feel pain when you have sex, have difficulty moving your bowels or passing urine, have low back pain and more commonly, you will have a feeling of pressure in your vagina and be uncomfortable when standing for any length of time. It is extremely important to see your doctor for any of these signs.
Treatment of a prolapse depends on the severity of the weakness of your muscles/ ligaments. Sometimes women may require surgery to either repair or remove the uterus. There are lots of women however who choose to insert a supportive device into their vagina to help. Hormone replacement may also helpful. Your doctor will certainly give you more information.
So remember that prevention is better than a cure. Look after your pelvic floor muscles and start some small changes now by looking at your diet and lifestyle.
About the author
Leanne Cummins is a mother, midwife and educator. Over the past 15 years, Leanne has worked in all areas of midwifery. Her passion is to share her knowledge with new families, and try to ‘debunk’ some of the myths surrounding parenthood. She has used many of her connections with other health professionals to produce a series of birth education DVDs, and enjoys speaking engagements around Australia meeting midwives, doula’s and new parents. She is also a supporter of the Australian Breastfeeding Association having been an ABA counsellor and Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) for many years.
Leanne can be contacted by visiting www.birthingsense.com.au
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