Causes

The uterus is normally supported by pelvic connective tissue, the pubococcygeus muscle, and held in position by special ligaments. Weakening of these tissues causes the uterus to descend into the vaginal canal.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The following factors are associated with an increased risk of uterine prolapse:

• Multiple pregnancies and vaginal deliveries—Uterine prolapse occurs most commonly in women who have had one or more vaginal births. Tissue trauma sustained during childbirth, especially with large babies or difficult labor and delivery, is typically the cause of muscle weakness.
• Retroverted uterus (positioned backwards from normal)
• Age (especially the years past menopause )—The loss of muscle tone and the relaxation of muscles, which are both associated with normal aging and a reduction in the female hormone estrogen, are also thought to play an important role in the development of uterine prolapse.
• Obesity —places additional strain on the supportive muscles of the pelvis
• Large uterine or ovarian tumors—Prolapse can also be caused by a pelvic tumor; however, this is fairly rare.
• Activities increasing the pressure in the abdomen and pelvis, including:
  • Severe or long-standing constipation
  • Chronic coughing (especially in smokers )
  • Heavy lifting
• Race: Caucasian