A cystocele is a medical condition also known as a prolapsed bladder. It occurs when a woman's bladder bulges down into the vagina, according to MayoClinic.com. Cystoceles are caused by the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles responsible for holding the pelvic organs in place. This muscle weakening is due to advancing age, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, vaginal childbirth or obesity. Treatment of a cystocele may include a pessary inserted into the vagina to help keep pelvic organs in place or surgical repair of the prolapse. Some patients may experience cystocele surgery complications.
Potential For Recurrence
MayoClinic.com reports that there is a risk for prolapse recurrence after cystocele surgery. This is partly due to the downward forces of gravity stretching out the tissues again. If the cystocele recurs, the surgery may need to be repeated. In some cases, a special type of tissue graft may be necessary to thicken the vaginal tissues and increase support for the bladder. If a prolapsed uterus is the cause of the cystocele, doctors may recommend removing the uterus in order to prevent recurrence.
Restrictions in Childbirth Options
If possible, cystocele surgery should be postponed until a woman is finished having children, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. This is because natural childbirth can cause a recurrence of the cystocele. Following cystocele surgery, cesarean childbirth is typically recommended to avoid further damage to the pelvic organs.
Urine Leakage
According to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, some patients experience urine leakage or incontinence following cystocele surgery. Incontinence may improve over time as pelvic muscles are strengthened with exercise. In some patients, occasional urinary incontinence or leakage may be permanent.
