Text size:

Bladder Prolapse (Cystocele)

Cystocele is the pelvic organ prolapse condition when the wall of tissue (fascia) between a woman's bladder and her vagina weakens and allows the bladder to descend into the vagina. The connective tissues supporting the bladder either stretch and descend or may be torn from the walls of the pelvis or vagina. This condition can be very uncomfortable and interfere with regular voiding of the bladder.

Cystocele and Incontinence

A bladder that has dropped from its normal position may cause two kinds of problems – unwanted urine leakage and incomplete emptying of the bladder. In some women, a fallen bladder stretches the opening into the urethra, causing stress incontinence or urine leakage when the woman coughs, sneezes, laughs or moves in any way that puts pressure on the bladder.

Causes of Cystocele

Cystocele may result from muscle straining while giving birth. Other kinds of straining, such as heavy lifting or repeated straining during bowel movements may also cause the bladder to fall. The hormone estrogen helps keep the muscles around the vagina strong. When women go through menopause, that is, when they stop having menstrual periods, their bodies stop making estrogen, so the muscles around the vagina and bladder may grow weaker. A urethrocele is the condition when the urethra descends into the vagina. This condition often occurs with a cystocele.

Symptoms of Cystocele:

  • Discomfort or pressure in the vagina
  • Lump or bulge at the vaginal opening
  • Urinary stress incontinence
  • Incomplete voiding of bladder
  • Sexual dysfunction or painful intercourse
  • Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Pain in pelvis, lower abdomen, groin or lower back

Testing for Cystocele

  • Pelvic exam
  • Urodynamics
  • Cytoscopy
  • Voiding Cystourethrogram

Treatment for Cystocele

  • Pelvic rehabilitation
  • Physical therapy
  • Pessary placement
  • Pelvic organ prolapse surgery (sacrocolpopexy)
  • Anterior vaginal wall repair surgery with or without mesh augmentation
  • Robotic laparoscopic surgery

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in the Bladder Health Program of South Florida website should be used solely for educational purposes. It is not intended to replace the independent judgment of a healthcare provider. The appropriateness of a course of treatment for a patient may vary from the medical information provided herein due to individual conditions and/or complications. Always ask your physician about all treatment options, as well as the risks and benefits.

Share