Uterine Prolapse: Kegel Exercises and Recovery Insights

Uterine prolapse issues?

I would like to ask the doctor, I am 27 years old and have four children.
After giving birth last year, the doctor mentioned that I have uterine prolapse.
Can Kegel exercises help the uterus return to its original position? Recently, I can feel something like a ball with my index and ring fingers deep inside the vagina, about two finger joints in.
Is this the uterus? How severe is this level of prolapse?

Ms. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/14

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Regarding your concerns, theoretically, even if you insert your fingers deeply into the vagina, you should not be able to reach the internal reproductive organs.
It is possible that what you are feeling is the cervix, which indirectly confirms the suspicion of pelvic organ prolapse.
Kegel exercises are designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles to prevent the worsening of prolapse and are more effective for mild cases.
If you feel a sensation of a foreign body in the vagina or can touch a hard object, it is advisable to consult a physician to determine if further surgical treatment is necessary.
Thank you for your question, and I wish you health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2021/06/14

More Info

Uterine prolapse is a condition that occurs when the uterus descends into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. This can happen after childbirth, especially after multiple pregnancies, as you have experienced. At 27 years old and having given birth to four children, it is not uncommon to encounter issues related to pelvic support and uterine positioning.

Kegel exercises, which involve the contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles, can be beneficial in managing mild to moderate uterine prolapse. These exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor, which can provide better support for the uterus and potentially improve symptoms. However, it is important to note that while Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor and may alleviate some symptoms, they may not necessarily return the uterus to its original position if the prolapse is significant.

Regarding the sensation you described, where you can feel a "ball-like" structure when inserting your fingers into the vagina, this could indeed be the cervix or the lower part of the uterus, especially if it has descended into the vaginal canal. The degree of prolapse can vary, and the severity is often classified into stages. A mild prolapse may not cause significant symptoms, while a more severe prolapse can lead to discomfort, urinary issues, or difficulty with bowel movements.

To assess the severity of your prolapse, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in pelvic health. They can perform a physical examination to determine the extent of the prolapse and discuss appropriate treatment options. Treatment may include pelvic floor physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, or in some cases, surgical interventions if the prolapse is severe and causing significant problems.

In addition to Kegel exercises, other strategies may help manage uterine prolapse symptoms:
1. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.

2. Avoiding Heavy Lifting: Reducing activities that put strain on the pelvic area can help prevent worsening of the prolapse.

3. Pessary Use: A pessary is a device inserted into the vagina to support the uterus and can be a non-surgical option for managing prolapse.

4. Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to your healthcare provider can help monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

In summary, Kegel exercises can be a helpful part of managing uterine prolapse, but their effectiveness may depend on the severity of the condition. It is crucial to seek professional medical advice to evaluate your specific situation and determine the best course of action for your recovery and overall pelvic health.

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