Uterine Prolapse After Childbirth: How Should You Take Care of Yourself?

Uterine prolapse is a condition where the uterus descends lower than its normal position in the pelvic cavity. This occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the uterus weaken, causing the uterus to sag into the vaginal canal. Symptoms range from mild to severe depending on the degree of uterine prolapse. This is a common problem for mothers after childbirth, potentially resulting from weakened pelvic floor muscles due to pregnancy and delivery.

Symptoms of Uterine Prolapse

  • Feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area, similar to having something heavy pressing on the lower abdomen or pelvic floor
  • A bulge protruding from the vagina; you may feel a lump near the vaginal opening or a sensation of something protruding
  • Urinary abnormalities: frequent urination, urinary incontinence, or incomplete emptying of the bladder
  • Constipation or difficulty with bowel movements, feeling the need to strain more during defecation
  • Lower back pain, which may feel like a heavy ache or soreness in the waist and back area
  • Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding

How to Take Care of Yourself with Postpartum Uterine Prolapse

If left untreated, uterine prolapse can affect a mother’s health and quality of life. Therefore, prevention and rehabilitation of uterine prolapse are crucial. Let’s look at 5 methods that can help:

  1. Practice Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegel Exercise)
    Pelvic floor exercises, known as “Kegel Exercise,” effectively strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. A simple way to practice is to contract your pelvic floor muscles, hold for 5-10 seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times per set, 3 sets daily. Practice regularly to help tighten the muscles and prevent uterine prolapse.
  2. Avoid Lifting Heavy Objects
    Lifting heavy objects increases abdominal pressure, increasing the chance of uterine prolapse. Mothers should avoid lifting heavy objects after childbirth, especially during the first 6-12 weeks. If you must lift something, bend your knees instead of your waist to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
  3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
    Excess weight increases pressure on the pelvic floor and uterus, raising the risk of uterine prolapse. Mothers should maintain an appropriate weight by choosing nutritious foods such as vegetables, fruits, and healthy proteins, as well as exercising regularly.
  4. Adjust Bowel Movement Habits
    Constipation increases abdominal pressure because you need to strain during bowel movements, which can cause the uterus to sag. Therefore, eat high-fiber foods like vegetables and grains, and drink plenty of water. Avoid straining during bowel movements. If you have constipation issues, consult a doctor for solutions.
  5. See a Doctor for Health Check-ups
    After childbirth, see a doctor regularly for check-ups. If you experience abnormal symptoms such as heaviness or pressure in the vagina, difficulty urinating, or pain in the pelvic area, consult a doctor promptly for advice and appropriate treatment. If symptoms are severe enough to affect your daily life or cause significant pain, your doctor may recommend surgical repair for uterine prolapse.

At Dr. Aomthong Clinic, patients are examined on a case-by-case basis. For severe uterine prolapse, OB-GYNs recommend AP repair surgery, which involves suturing the vaginal walls, both front and back, to correct uterine prolapse and bladder prolapse into the vaginal canal. This method takes the longest surgical time and requires the most stitches to push the pelvic organs back up. The results of tightness and firmness last a minimum of 5 years.

Uterine prolapse is a condition that can be prevented and rehabilitated if mothers take care of their health and strictly follow the above recommendations. Practicing pelvic floor exercises, avoiding heavy lifting, maintaining a healthy weight, adjusting bowel movement habits, and seeing a doctor for health check-ups will help mothers regain strong health and live confidently.

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