What is genital prolapse?
Genital prolapse is a general term which includes several conditions, which may occur separately or in combination. These include uterine prolapse (dropped womb), vaginal prolapse, cystocele (dropped bladder), rectocele (dropped rectum), and enterocele (herniation of the small intestine into the space between the rectum and vagina). A prolapsed uterus occurs when the uterus drops from its normal position. The cervix may also descend into the vaginal opening. The condition occurs in approximately 11% of women. Causes of a prolapsed uterus A prolapsed uterus may occur for several reasons including: Childbirth, especially with a large baby, can place pressure on the birth canal and damage the vaginal walls. Genetic Constipation and obesity can place pressure on internal organs and cause a uterine prolapse. Fibroid tumors can be a contributing factor. Menopause with its reduced estrogen levels can result in the ligaments holding the uterus in place to lose some of their elasticity and stre