FEMALE PROLAPSE
Bladder prolapse is also a common condition. Used to store urine, the bladder is a hollow organ in the pelvis. Pressure created when the bladder fills with urine is what causes the urge to urinate, when urine travels from the bladder and out the body through the ureter. In women, the uterus, or womb is held in place by the muscles, tissues and ligaments in the pelvis. Prolapse occurs when these supporting muscles, tissues and ligaments become weaker and are unable to hold the uterus in place.
There are varying degrees of prolapse:
- First degree prolapse – when the uterus slips down into the vagina
- Second degree prolapse – when part of the uterus sticks out of the opening of the vagina
- Third degree prolapse – also called procidentia – when the entire uterus slips outside the vagina