Uterine Prolapse

A woman’s uterus is located in the pelvis, which is supported by muscles and ligaments. When these muscles stretch or become weakened, the pelvic floor may allow the uterus to drop down into or protrude out of the vaginal canal. This is called uterine prolapse.

Those most at risk for this condition are older, postmenopausal women and women who have delivered a baby vaginally – especially if their supportive tissues were damaged during childbirth. The weakening of pelvic muscles also may be caused by reduced estrogen levels, chronic coughing, obesity, and constant straining from constipation. Mild cases of uterine prolapse may have few symptoms and go mostly unnoticed. Moderate uterine prolapse is more likely to fully protrude out of the vaginal canal and require treatment.

Why choose UAB Medicine

UAB Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery provides the highest level of research-based care for women’s pelvic floor disorders. Our expert providers are fellowship-trained and board-certified, and they offer the full range of treatment options for women with urinary and bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and other pelvic floor conditions. Many of our surgical treatments are minimally invasive, which means that only a few small incisions (cuts) are needed. We also work closely with other providers to offer nonsurgical options for pelvic floor conditions.

Our urogynecologic and pelvic reconstructive surgeons and physicians are recognized nationally and internationally for excellence. We also provide advanced training to other providers through a competitive fellowship program. Urogynecology is all that we do, so you can depend on us to deliver personalized care that meets your needs and preferences.

Care Providers

Gena Dunivan, MD Urogynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology David Ellington, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology, Urogynecology Gabriela Halder, MD, MPH Urogynecology Thomas Powell, MD, MPH Urogynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Tracey Wilson, MD Trauma and Reconstructive Urology, Urology

Videos

Resources

• UAB Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
• UAB Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery
• Medline Plus – Pelvic Floor Disorders

Related Specialties

• OBGYN Services
  Women & Infants Services