A prolapsed bladder, also known as a cystocele, is when the bladder is not properly held in place inside the pelvis. The condition is a result of damage to the supportive tissue between a woman's bladder and the vaginal wall; in some cases, the bladder may protrude into the vagina. Excessive strain on pelvic supportive muscles, often seen during childbirth, chronic constipation, heavy coughing, or weight lifting, may lead to the development of this condition.
Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, the signs and symptoms of prolapsed bladder include a feeling a pressure in your pelvis and vagina, increased discomfort during physical exertion, and a feeling that your bladder is not empty after urinating. In severe cases, patients may feel as if they are sitting on an egg; this is generally only present when the bladder protrudes through the vaginal opening. Conversely, mild cases of prolapsed bladder may not produce any symptoms.
Risk Factors
There are several risk factors that are known to contribute to the development of cystocele in some cases. Women who have had a vaginal delivery with one or more children may have damaged pelvic muscles during the process, thus increasing their risk of bladder prolapse. Muscles of the pelvis may also become weak with age as the levels of estrogen, which normally strengthens these muscles, decrease during menopause. Having a hysterectomy, or surgical removal of the uterus, may also play a role in weakening the pelvic floor.
Risk During Exercise
The mechanism of bladder prolapse essentially lies in increased pressure within the pelvic cavity. Activities that dramatically increase the pressure within this confined space are risky if you have a history of cystocele. Exercise routines should be discussed with your doctor; depending on the severity of your condition, she may recommend activities to avoid. For example, exercises such as heavy lifting should be performed with extreme caution, as they are known to increase pressures within the pelvis.
Applications and Treatment
Approaches to managing bladder prolapse vary widely, depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, treatment may involve what are known as Kegel exercises, which are aimed at specifically strengthening muscles in the floor of the pelvis. To supplement these self-care measures, a physical therapist specializing in disorders of pelvic muscles may be consulted. Other treatments include estrogen therapy and, in severe cases, surgery.
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