Vaginal Prolapse

Prolapse is a condition where organs fall down or slip out of place. There are several types of prolapse, which can be felt as pressure or even a bulge or ball at the vaginal opening. These include:

• Cystocele - a relaxation, falling, or hernia of the bladder backward into the vagina
• Rectocele - a relaxation, falling, or hernia of the rectum forward into the vagina
• Uterine Prolapse - a relaxation, falling, or hernia of the uterus downward into the vagina
• Vault Prolapse (Post-Hysterectomy) - a relaxation, falling, or hernia of the top of the vagina downward into the vagina

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Symptoms

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Risk Factors

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When to see a doctor

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Treatment of these conditions is either surgical correction or support with a pessary (a plastic disc). Most women choose surgery if they are in good health. Sometimes prolapse is mild and does not require surgery.

All options are tailored to the patient's exact diagnosis. Robotic-assisted surgeries or minimally invasive vaginal incisions are usually possible.

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Cytoscopy

This test is performed to look at the inner lining of the bladder, to detect stones or tumors. It involves using a small thin telescope (smaller than a drinking straw) to enter the bladder through the urethra (the urinary tube). This is usually well tolerated. Special concerns or fears about the procedure should be voiced to the nursing staff prior to the procedure.

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Urodynamic Testing

This test is performed to see how strong the bladder contraction is, to measure how easily leakage occurs, to determine how much the bladder will safely hold, and to see how well it empties. It involves placement of two tiny catheters (tubes) and some sticky patches on the genital region. It is an essential part of the decision making in many cases.