Surgery Overview

Two common forms of pelvic organ prolapse are bladder prolapse (cystocele) and urethral prolapse (urethrocele). A cystocele occurs when the wall of the bladder presses against and moves the wall of the vagina. A urethrocele occurs when the urethra moves from its normal position and presses against the wall of the vagina. Both conditions are easy for your doctor to see during a physical exam. They often occur at the same time and are usually caused by damage that happens from a vaginal delivery.

While it is common to have some degree of bladder and urethral prolapse, few people ever have any symptoms. Or the symptoms do not appear for years. When symptoms do appear, they may include difficulty urinating, uncontrolled release of urine (urinary incontinence), and pain during sexual intercourse. Surgery is not required unless your symptoms interfere with daily activities.

Unless another health problem is present that would require an abdominal incision, the bladder and urethra are usually repaired through an incision in the wall of the vagina. This surgery pulls together the loose or torn tissue and strengthens the wall of the vagina. This prevents prolapse from recurring.