What Is a Prolapsed Bladder?
Prolapsed bladder is a condition where the bladder drops and bulges into the vagina. Normally, the bladder is supported by pelvic floor tissues and muscles, which form a “hammock.” When the “hammock” is stretched or weakened, bladder prolapse, or cystocele, can occur. In severe circumstances, the bladder can even drop into the opening of the vagina.
Bladder prolapse is more common in women than in men. It is most often caused by stress from childbirth. Women who have multiple pregnancies, long or difficult deliveries, and deliver vaginally are at the highest risk.
Other causes of bladder prolapse include:
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Aging
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Chronic coughing
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Constipation and straining to pass stool
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Heavy lifting
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Menopause
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Pelvic surgery
Symptoms
The symptoms of a prolapsed bladder can include:
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Feeling or seeing a bulge in your vagina
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Frequent urination or urge to urinate
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Incontinence – urinating when you do not intend to
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Not feeling relief after you urinate
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Pain during sexual intercourse
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Pain in the groin, lower abdomen, lower back, pelvis and vagina
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Pressure in the vaginal area
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Recurrent urinary tract infections
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Tissue that is sticking out of the opening on your vagina
Some women have no symptoms at all.
Treatment Options
Treatment for prolapsed bladder can include:
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Behavior therapy – These include Kegel exercises, a vaginal support device (pessary) or pelvic floor physical therapy.
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Medication – Estrogen replacement therapy may be used to relieve symptoms.
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Surgery – Traditional, robotic or minimally invasive surgical therapy may be required to repair or support the bladder tissue.
Some women do not require treatment if they don’t have uncomfortable symptoms.
Ready for an Appointment?
If you're experiencing signs or symptoms of prolapsed bladder, schedule an appointment or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today.
Learn more about our doctors and care team who diagnose and treat prolapsed bladder.