Answer:

The uterus is a female reproductive organ located in the pelvis. It's held in its natural physiological position by muscles, pelvic floor tissues, the vaginal wall, and ligaments in the abdomen and pelvis. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the uterus descends into the vagina or protrudes outside the vulva. In severe cases, the bladder and rectum can also prolapse.

The condition is categorized into varying degrees of severity, from mild to severe. Symptoms include pelvic pain, a protruding mass, urinary disorders (incontinence or difficulty urinating, incomplete emptying of the bladder), and bowel dysfunction (fecal incontinence, constipation). Patients might also experience decreased libido, painful intercourse, and difficulty with intercourse, impacting physical and mental health, as well as quality of life. Without prompt and proper treatment, pelvic organ prolapse can progress rapidly and lead to more serious complications.

The primary cause of pelvic organ prolapse is the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and tissues, compromising the support structure for pelvic organs. Factors that increase the risk include pregnancy, childbirth, natural aging, pelvic surgery, and obstetric complications. Women engaged in strenuous labor, such as factory workers, farmers, or those who stand for extended periods and carry heavy loads, experience increased pressure on the pelvic floor, also elevating their risk of pelvic organ prolapse.

A high BMI is a lifestyle factor that significantly impacts the pelvic floor, increasing the risk of prolapse. Excessive body weight puts pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, weakening their function and increasing pelvic pressure, leading to disorders like urinary incontinence.

Obesity also disrupts hormonal balance, which can further weaken the strength and overall integrity of the pelvic floor muscles, leading to dysfunction and pelvic pain. If you've been diagnosed with obesity, weight loss is recommended to improve overall health, alleviate prolapse symptoms, and manage pelvic floor disorders.

Dr. Phan Thi Thuy Dung

Weight Management and Obesity Treatment Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM