The term "falling of the womb" describes a condition in which a woman's uterus falls down into the vaginal canal. The correct spelling of this condition is "prolapse", pronounced /prəˈlɑːps/ (proh-laps). The first syllable ("pro") is pronounced with a short vowel sound, followed by stress on the second syllable ("laps"). The "e" at the end of the word is silent. Prolapse can cause discomfort and affect daily activities, but can often be treated with lifestyle changes or surgery.
Falling of the womb, also known as uterine prolapse or pelvic organ prolapse, is a medical condition characterized by the displacement or descent of the uterus from its normal position within the pelvic cavity. In this condition, the supporting muscles and ligaments that hold the uterus in place become weakened, causing the womb to slip or droop into the vagina or even protrude outside the body.
The falling of the womb primarily affects women, particularly those who have been through childbirth, experienced multiple pregnancies, or are in the postmenopausal stage. Additional risk factors may include obesity, aging, connective tissue disorders, chronic cough, and heavy lifting. Symptoms associated with this condition may vary in severity and can include a sense of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis, the presence of a lump or bulge in the vaginal area, pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, urinary incontinence or retention, and difficulty with bowel movements.
Treatment options for falling of the womb can range from conservative approaches, such as pelvic floor exercises or the use of pessaries (devices inserted into the vagina to provide support), to surgical intervention. Surgery may involve repairing or strengthening the supportive structures of the pelvic floor or lifting the prolapsed organ back into its original position. In some cases, a hysterectomy may be recommended.
Early detection and timely management of the falling of the womb are crucial to prevent potential complications and to improve quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a gynecologist, can help determine the best treatment plan based on individual circumstances.
Prolapsus uteri, procidentia uteri, metroptosia, hysteroptosia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.