Hundreds of thousands of women today suffer from the effects of a prolapsed bladder (cystocele) or prolapsed urethra (urethrocele). Prolapse is a condition in which organs that are normally supported by the pelvic floor (e.g., bladder, bowel, and uterus) herniate or protrude into the vagina. This happens as a result of injury to the muscles and ligaments that run from the pubic bone in front to the tailbone in back.

Damage to the pelvic floor support system is most commonly due to childbirth, especially in cases of prolonged labor, large babies, or deliveries by instruments. Other contributing factors can be past surgery, low estrogen levels in menopause, and conditions that cause a chronic elevation of pressure within the abdomen such as constipation, coughing, and heavy lifting.

Most women are unaware of the presence of mild bladder prolapse, but when the prolapse is moderate or severe, the symptoms may include: stress incontinence; urgency; frequent urination; incomplete emptying of the bladder; dribbling; recurrent urinary infections; and painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). Surgery is not required until a woman's symptoms interfere with her daily activities.

Repair of bladder or urethral prolapses through a vaginal wall incision is the preferred surgical method, although many physicians continue to perform this type of repair by way of an abdominal incision. The vaginal procedure is less traumatic because it does not involve opening the abdomen. As compared with the abdominal procedure, the vaginal (pelvic-floor) method involves fewer risks, has a much quicker recovery, and the 93% cure rate is higher.

If you suspect that you may have a bladder or urethral prolapse, call South Baldwin Obstetrics & Gynecology at (251) 943-2141 to make an appointment to speak with either Dr. Dennis McNally or Dr. Nicole Brooks.