Am I AT Risk Of Getting Uterine Prolapse?

Have you had one or more pregnancies and vaginal births?

Have you had a difficult labor and delivery or trauma during childbirth?

Did you give birth to a large baby?

Are you a postmenopausal woman?

Are you overweight or obese (your BMI (body mass index) is 25 or higher)?

Do you have chronic constipation or frequent straining during bowel movements?

Have you previously had a pelvic surgery?

Do you cough constantly (due to asthma, bronchitis or smoking)?

Does your exercise routine include heavy lifting?

Do you have a family history of uterine prolapse?

Based on your answers you have a low risk of getting uterine prolapse. Uterine prolapse is a medical condition in which the uterus drops from its normal position into the vagina or protrudes from it. It occurs due to the weakness of the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments, which then no longer provide an adequate support to the uterus. Uterine prolapse can run in families. It can also be caused by various conditions that lead to an increase in abdominal pressure, such as prolonged coughing due to asthma, bronchitis or smoking, constant straining during bowel movements, or excessive or improper weight lifting.

Based on your answers you have a moderate risk of getting uterine prolapse. Uterine prolapse is a condition in which the uterus is displaced from its normal position due to the weakness of the pelvic floor muscles. The uterus may descend into or protrude from the vagina. A major pelvic surgery can weaken the pelvic tissues, as well as being overweight or obese. Being overweight puts an extra pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, so achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight can reduce the risk of uterine prolapse. Regular exercise is vital for overall health, but you should avoid strength training with heavy weights.

Based on your answers you have a high risk of getting uterine prolapse. Uterine prolapse can affect women of all ages, but it is most common in postmenopausal women who have given birth. Physical stress and strain during childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, especially in women who have given birth more than once. Postmenopausal women also have a natural decline in estrogen levels, which is associated with a decrease in muscle mass and strength. The pelvic floor muscles can be trained with specially designed Kegel exercises. Performing Kegel’s regularly can strengthen your muscles, which is especially important if you have recently had a baby.