What Causes Uterine Prolapse?
Aug 04, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
Childbirth injury is the primary cause of uterine prolapse. During delivery—especially in cases of dystocia, prolonged labor, vaginal operative delivery, or an extended second stage of labor—perineal lacerations or stretching may occur, along with tears in the pelvic fascia and levator ani muscle. This results in weakened or deficient pelvic floor tissues, widening and opening of the urogenital hiatus, and excessive intra-abdominal pressure that pushes the unreturned enlarged uterus into the vagina.
Uterine prolapse is not uncommon among women; severe cases can significantly impair normal sexual function. So, what causes uterine prolapse?
What Causes Uterine Prolapse?
Obstetric injury is the primary cause of uterine prolapse. During childbirth—particularly in cases of difficult labor, prolonged second-stage labor, vaginal operative delivery (e.g., forceps or vacuum extraction), or delayed delivery—perineal lacerations or overstretching may occur, along with tears to the pelvic fascia and levator ani muscles. These injuries lead to weakened or defective pelvic floor tissues, widening and opening of the urogenital hiatus, and excessive intra-abdominal pressure that pushes the non-retracted uterus downward into the vagina.
Ovarian function decline is clinically observed in postmenopausal women who develop pelvic organ prolapse. During menopause, declining ovarian function leads to reduced or absent estrogen levels, causing degeneration, weakening, laxity, and atrophy of pelvic floor muscles and fascial support structures, as well as decreased muscle tone—ultimately resulting in uterine prolapse, urethral prolapse, or other forms of pelvic organ descent. Similarly, some younger postpartum women who breastfeed for extended periods may experience a transient decline in ovarian function, leading to reduced elasticity and tension in uterine supporting structures and consequently mild uterine prolapse.
Women who engage long-term in heavy physical labor, prolonged standing or lifting, chronic coughing, constipation, straining during defecation, or habitual squatting are chronically exposed to elevated intra-abdominal pressure—thereby increasing their risk of uterine prolapse. It is advisable to minimize or avoid these activities whenever possible. We hope this information is helpful to you!
