Does hysterectomy treat uterine prolapse?

Uterine prolapse happens when the tissues and muscles supporting the womb become less able to hold it in its usual position. A hysterectomy removes the uterus; during the same operation, a surgeon may repair or strengthen other areas of pelvic support. Removing the uterus alone is not the whole treatment plan, because the vagina, bladder, or bowel may also have support changes. The operation is generally considered when symptoms are troublesome, other measures have not helped enough, or a person does not want to preserve the uterus. A vaginal pessary, pelvic floor treatment, or prolapse repair that keeps the uterus may be alternatives depending on examination findings and reproductive plans.

Arrange a gynaecology assessment so the clinician can identify which organs are affected, assess the degree of prolapse, and discuss your goals. Tell them about pressure, a bulge, urinary leakage, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, sexual discomfort, previous pelvic operations, and whether future pregnancy matters to you. Ask what procedure would support the top of the vagina after hysterectomy and what non-surgical option could be tried first. Recovery planning may include arranging help at home and following restrictions on lifting and vaginal activity while tissues heal. You can read more about [Hysterectomy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/hysterectomy/).

Seek prompt medical advice if a vaginal bulge becomes painful, bleeds, cannot be pushed back when it previously could, or causes difficulty passing urine or stool. Urgent care is appropriate for severe pain, inability to urinate, heavy bleeding, fever, or feeling faint. These signs can reflect a complication or another pelvic problem and should not be judged by the degree of prolapse alone.

Ask: Which support areas are weakened? Could a pessary or pelvic floor therapy help? Would an operation preserve my uterus? What repair would accompany hysterectomy? How might treatment affect urination, bowel function, sex, and recovery?