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Cystocele Repair in Clinton, NC

What is a Cystocele?

A cystocele is another term for a bladder prolapse. This is a condition where the supportive tissues between a woman’s bladder and vaginal wall weaken, causing the bladder to descend into the vaginal space.

At Carolina Urology Healthcare, our urology clinic specializes in providing patients with advanced treatments for bladder prolapse. Our experienced team of urologists is committed to providing the highest of care. Call our clinic at (910) 590-3569 to schedule an appointment.

What is Cystocele Repair?

When non-surgical interventions do not provide adequate relief, surgical repair may be considered. Cystocele repair is also known as anterior vaginal wall repair or cystocele reconstruction. This surgery aims to restore the normal position of the bladder and strengthen the supportive tissues between the bladder and vagina.

What Causes a Cystocele?

This weakening of supportive tissues can be caused by multiple factors including:

  • Aging
  • Vaginal deliveries of heavy babies
  • Hormonal changes
  • Menopause (a permanent end of your monthly periods)
  • Obesity (having a high, unhealthy amount of body fat)
  • Frequent straining during bowel movements
  • Heavy lifting
  • A hysterectomy (surgery to remove your uterus) or other gynecologic surgery

What are the Signs or Symptoms of a Cystocele?

Dealing with a cystocele can impact your daily life and emotional well-being.

The symptoms of a cystocele can vary from mild to severe and may include:

  • A sensation of pelvic pressure or fullness
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Frequent urinary tract infections
  • Difficulty fully emptying the bladder
  • Discomfort during intercourse
  • A “ball” or “lump” protruding from the vagina
  • Lower back pain or pressure
  • Vaginal bleeding

How is a Cystocele Diagnosed?

To be diagnosed with a cystocele, you will consult with Carolina Urology Healthcare. You may undergo some imaging tests and discuss your medical history as well as any symptoms you are experiencing.

How is a Cystocele Treated?

Treatment for a cystocele includes lifestyle changes, cystocele repair surgery, surgery to place a urethral sling, or both.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Before considering surgery, non-surgical options may include:

  • Pelvic floor exercises – kegels or other muscle strengthening exercises
  • Pessaries – devices inserted into the vagina to support pelvic organs
  • Lifestyle changes  – weight loss, avoiding heavy lifting

Cystocele repair surgery

A cystocele repair is a surgery is recommended and will:

  • Put your bladder back in its normal place
  • Fix the wall between your bladder and vagina to keep your bladder from moving again

Urethral sling surgery

A urethral sling is another type of treatment that may help. Sometimes this type of surgery can be performed using the patient’s tissue (native tissue repair).

For a urethral sling surgery you can expect:

  • A piece of mesh that holds your urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body) in its correct position
  • Your surgeon will loop the sling around your urethra and attach the ends to your pubic bone
  • The sling is permanent

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Our experienced team of urologists is committed to providing the highest of care. Call our clinic at (910) 590-3569 to schedule an appointment.