Prolapse

A genital tract prolapse (pelvic organ prolapse) is a weakness of the supporting structures of the uterus (womb), pelvic floor and vagina.


  • Weakness in the front wall of the vagina (cystocele) is when the bladder is pushing into the vagina
  • Weakness in the back wall of the vagina (rectocele) is when the rectum is pushing into the vagina
  • Weakness in the supports of the uterus can cause a total pelvic prolapse (procidentia)
  • Weakness in the upper part of the vagina can cause a hernia (enterocele)


Prolapsed bladders (cystocele) can cause a variety of problems like discomfort and urinary incontinence. Many women will notice a bulge or a dragging sensation. Prolapsed bowels (rectocele) can also cause bladder symptoms as well as bowel emptying symptoms. Your Urologist is trained in pelvic organ prolapse and has the skills to manage your prolapse symptoms as well as any incontinence problems you may have.

Treatments

There are simple conservative measures that your Urologist may recommend for you as well as surgical options. Surgery may be done through the vagina or abdomen and this will depend on the presence of other symptoms and the type of prolapse.