Types of Prolapse

Pelvic Organ Prolapse is a condition in which the pelvic floor muscles weaken and can bulge downward, or prolapse.  Prolapse, especially of the bladder and Urethra, can be a contributing factor in the development of  incontinence.  It can be caused by many factors including pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, obesity, the process of aging, trauma to the area, and any previous surgery, such as a hysterectomy. There are several different types of prolapse, including:

Cystocele: this can occur due to a weakening or stretching of the muscles and tissues that support the bladder causing the bladder to shift from its natural position and push against the wall of the vagina creating a bulge.  With this type of prolapse you might experience leakage when you laugh, cough, sneeze, or with movement.  You may also have an inability to completely empty out your bladder, which creates an environment for bacteria to grow and can lead to infection.

Urethrocele: this occurs due to a weakening or stretching of the muscle that hold the urethra in position.  The urethra is the cylinder that acts as a conduit for urine to pass from the bladder and exit the body. With a Urethrocele the urethra shifts from its natural position and pushes against the vaginal wall. With this type of prolapse you might experience leakage when you laugh, cough, or with movement.  You may also have an inability to completely empty your bladder, which creates an environment for bacteria to grow and can lead to infection. Urethroceles can often occur with cystoceles.

Uterine Prolapse: this can occur in women who have had a vaginal birth due to the weakening or stretching of the muscles and tissues that support the uterus or due to a decrease in estrogen levels.  The uterus drops from its normal position in the pelvic area and falls into the vaginal canal.

Vaginal Vault prolapse: is where the upper portion of the vagina loses its natural form and will hang down into the vaginal canal or even outside of the vaginal. It most commonly occurs in women who have had a hysterectomy, in which their uterus is removed.

Enterocele: this will occur due to a weakening or stretching of the muscles and tissues that hold the small bowel in place.  During a bowel movement, when you are straining this condition may become more apparent.  You might experience a feeling of heaviness in the vagina, an aching in your lower back or pelvis upon long periods of standing, and constipation or an inability to completely empty your bowel.

Rectocele: this will occur due to a weakening or stretching of the tissues and muscles that hold the end of the large intestine, or rectum, in position. The rectum will shift from its normal position and pushes against the back wall of the vagina, sometimes extending through it.

For further information and to learn more about West Texas incontinence Center, please contact us at: (806)773-1267 or (800)737-0757