CYSTOCELE

Cystocele, better known as Anterior Prolapse, is a condition in which the tissue between the bladder and vaginal wall weakens, and the bladder bulges into the vagina

Due to this condition, complete draining of the urinary bladder becomes difficult, and the urinary retention can cause infections

Causes

Anterior prolapse occurs when the muscles supporting the pelvic organs get strained. This generally happens

• During vaginal childbirth
• Chronic constipation
• Lifting heavy weights or violent movements can cause the organs to displace

It may also happen after menopause, when the estrogen levels change

Symptoms

A Cystocele is characterized by

• Feeling of fullness in the pelvic and vaginal region, especially the bladder
• Repeated infections of the urinary bladder
• Feeling that the bladder isn't completely empty even after urination
• Pain and/or urinary leakage during sexual intercourse

Diagnosis

• The doctor will most likely conduct a total pelvic examination, and may ask you a series of questions to rule out any other possible disorders
• Also, a sample of urine will be tested for any abnormalities in composition and infections
• The bladder is also tested for any bulging

Treatment

• Mild cases of prolapse usually do not require immediate treatment, and exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles are recommended in addition to wait and watch if the condition aggravates
• In slightly serious cases, a pessary (a plastic or rubber ring inserted into the vagina to support the bladder) may be used . This method is more widely utilized as an alternative to surgery. The patient is taught how to remove, clean and reinsert the pessary, to maintain hygiene
• Hormonal therapy using estrogen may be used, to strengthen the muscles after menopause
• In extreme cases, surgery is needed to lift the bladder to its original position and to strengthen the muscles. The doctor may use tissue grafts to strengthen the pelvic muscle, which are inserted either through the vagina or through incisions in the lower abdomen

"Authored By Dr.Niraj Mahajan"