Degrees of uterine prolapse

First degree of vaginal and uterine prolapse

The first degree of vaginal and uterine prolapse is characterized by some downward displacement of the uterus, while the cervix descends, and the woman herself can detect it at a distance equal to half an index finger from the entrance to the vagina.

The genital slit is slightly open, and when straining, the walls of the vagina protrude from it.

Already at the initial stage of prolapse of the genitals, associated with partial weakening of the pelvic floor muscles, deviations in health can be noticed. The first sign of prolapse is itching and burning in the vaginal opening, caused by recurring vulvitis. A disruption of the vaginal flora leads to the appearance of abnormal leucorrhoea. With a weakened immune system, inflammatory processes in the internal reproductive organs are possible. Women who are particularly sensitive to pain report a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen, lower back, and sacrum, caused by tension in the uterine ligaments.

Second degree of prolapse

In the second degree of prolapse of the genital organs, the cervix is ​​at the level of the entrance to the vagina and, when straining, appears from the genital slit in the form of a smooth pink ball.

The uterus descending downwards «pulls along» the bladder and rectum, which protrude into the vagina, forming a cystocele and rectocele, that is, a hernia.

Significant changes in the position of the pelvic organs and the formation of rectal and bladder hernias lead to lower abdominal and lower back pain, a foreign body sensation in the vaginal opening, genital inflammation, intimate problems, bowel obstruction, and urinary incontinence. Urine leakage occurs when laughing, sneezing, coughing, lifting, or even simply bending over. To avoid embarrassment, women are forced to use sanitary pads and rethink their wardrobe, avoiding pants.

Interestingly, prolapse does not affect the condition of the uterus; only some patients may experience menstrual cycle and reproductive dysfunction due to blood stagnation in the genitals and ovarian dysfunction.

Third degree of prolapse

In the third degree of genital prolapse, the cervix is ​​constantly located at the entrance to the vagina and is visible even without straining, and when the anterior abdominal wall is strained, it partially protrudes outward.

The mucous membrane covering the surface of the vaginal walls and cervix is ​​subject to friction, dries out, becomes infected, and inflamed, which causes constant pain and purulent discharge.

Sexual intercourse becomes impossible. Urinary incontinence, chronic constipation, and periodic involuntary gas and stool passage are observed.

Fourth degree prolapse

The uterus descends even lower, and the cervix completely extends beyond the genital slit and does not return inside the vagina even when lying down.

The cervical mucosa appears bluish, is covered with cracks, ulcers, bleeds, becomes inflamed, and becomes covered with a purulent coating.

Pain in the genital area is constant, interfering with walking and normal daily activities. Urinary incontinence causes a persistent urine odor, which is difficult to eliminate even with meticulous personal hygiene.

Fifth degree prolapse or complete prolapse of the uterus

At this stage of prolapse, the uterus completely extends beyond the genital slit, turning the walls of the vagina inside out. A hernial sac forms, containing the uterus, and sometimes the appendages, and the wall of the bladder or rectum. The woman becomes disabled, unable to work, and has difficulty caring for herself.

Prolapsed organs can become trapped in the vaginal opening, swell, and become impossible to push back in, even manually. This can lead to infectious complications requiring immediate surgery.

Ulcers that form on the cervix and inverted vaginal walls are very difficult to treat, which creates a risk of developing cancer.