Cystocele (Fallen Bladder) - Picture, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Surgery of Cystocele
A cystocele (SIS-tuh-seal) occurs when the wall between a woman's bladder and her vagina weakens and allows the bladder to droop into the vagina. This condition may cause discomfort and problems with emptying the bladder.
What causes a cystocele?
A cystocele may result from:
- menopause - The hormone estrogen helps keep the muscles around the vagina strong, but with menopause, the body stops making estrogen and the muscles around the vagina and bladder may become weakened.
- heavy lifting
- repeated straining during bowel movements
- muscle straining while giving birth
Symptoms of Cystocele
The symptoms of cystocele depend on individual factors such as the severity of the condition, but can include:
- Stress incontinence, which means that urine leaks when coughing, sneezing or laughing.
- Inability to completely empty the bladder after going to the toilet.
- Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Urination problems, such as straining to get urine flow started or an unusually slow flow of urine that tends to stop and start.
- A sensation of fullness or pressure inside the vagina.
- A bulging mass felt on the front wall of the vagina.
- In severe cases, the vagina and the bladder protrude out of the vaginal entrance.
How do I prepare for a cystocele repair?
Plan for your care and recovery after the operation. Allow for time to rest and try to find people to help you with your day-to-day duties. Follow instructions provided by your doctor. Eat a light meal, such as soup or salad, the night before the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight and the morning before the procedure. Do not even drink coffee, tea, or water.
Cystocele Treatment - How is it treated?
Treatment may be surgical or nonsurgical depending on how severe the cystocele is and the symptoms you are having. Possible treatments include:
- Kegel exercises: These are exercises you can do to strengthen the muscles in and around your vagina. They are done by squeezing the pelvic floor muscles.
- Pessary: A vaginal pessary (a plastic or rubber ring) is placed in the vagina to push the bladder up and back in place. In some cases, a large tampon or vaginal diaphragm might be used instead of a pessary.
- Surgery: Several different types of surgical procedures may be done to correct the cystocele. The procedure used depends on the type and extent of damage to the pelvic muscles and ligaments. In some cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended to help correct the problem and prevent recurrence.
Cystocele Surgery
Large cystoceles may require surgery to move the bladder back into a more normal position and keep it there. This operation may be performed by a gynecologist, a urologist, or a urogynecologist. The patient should be prepared to stay in the hospital for several days and take 4 to 6 weeks to recover fully.
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