Uterine Prolapse in Pregnancy: A Review

Abstract

Importance Although not a common occurrence, uterine prolapse during pregnancy can have significant effects for pregnancy outcomes and quality of life of maternal patients. Most data about management exist as case reports; a review of these cases provides some guidance about treatment options. Objectives This review examines current literature about uterine prolapse during pregnancy to assess current information about this condition, prevalence, diagnosis, management, and outcomes. Evidence Acquisition Electronic databases (PubMed and Embase) were searched using terms “uterine prolapse” AND “pregnancy” AND “etiology” OR “risk factors” OR “diagnosis” OR “therapy” OR “management” limited to the English language and between the years 1980 and October 31, 2022. Results Upon review of 475 articles, 48 relevant articles were included as well as 6 relevant articles found on additional literature review for a total of 54 articles. Of those articles, 62 individual cases of uterine prolapse in pregnancy were reviewed including pregnancy complications, mode of delivery, and outcomes. Prevalence was noted to be rare, but much more common in second and subsequent pregnancies. Most diagnoses were made based on symptomatic prolapse on examination. Management strategies included bed rest, pessary use, and surgery (typically during the early second trimester). Complications included preterm delivery, patient discomfort, urinary retention, and urinary tract infection. Delivery methods included both cesarean and vaginal deliveries. Conclusions Although a rare condition, uterine prolapse in pregnancy is readily diagnosed on examination. Reasonable conservative management strategies include observation, attempted reduction of prolapse, and pessary use; if these measures fail, surgical treatment is an option. Relevance Our review compiles literature and known cases of uterine prolapse during pregnancy and current evidence about prevalence, diagnosis, management, outcomes, and complications of uterine prolapse during pregnancy in order to inform our target audience in their clinical practice. Target Audience Obstetricians and gynecologist, family physicians. Learning Objectives After completing this learning activity, the participant should be able to describe the prevalence of uterine prolapse during pregnancy, potential at-risk populations, and presenting symptoms; identify management strategies for uterine prolapse during pregnancy including both surgical and conservative approaches; and assess possible complications of uterine prolapse during pregnancy.