Cystocele

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Cystocele

A cystocele, also known as a prolapsed bladder, is a medical condition where the bladder bulges into the vagina due to weakening of the supportive tissues between the bladder and the vaginal wall. This condition is most commonly seen in women and can cause discomfort, urinary problems, and other complications.

Causes

Cystocele is primarily caused by the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues. Factors that contribute to this weakening include:

• Childbirth, especially vaginal delivery
• Menopause and the associated decrease in estrogen levels
• Heavy lifting or straining
• Chronic constipation
• Obesity
• Previous pelvic surgery

Symptoms

The symptoms of a cystocele can vary depending on the severity of the prolapse. Common symptoms include:

• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the pelvis and vagina
• Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse
• Urinary incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• A bulge of tissue protruding through the vaginal opening

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a cystocele typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. Additional tests may include:

• Pelvic exam
• Urinalysis to check for infections
• Urodynamic testing to assess bladder function
• Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI

Treatment

Treatment options for cystocele depend on the severity of the condition and the symptoms experienced. They include:

• Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) to strengthen the pelvic muscles
• Pessary devices to support the bladder
• Estrogen therapy for postmenopausal women
• Surgical repair to restore the normal position of the bladder

Prevention

Preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing a cystocele include:

• Performing regular pelvic floor exercises
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding heavy lifting and straining
• Managing chronic constipation

Related Pages

• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Urinary incontinence
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Pessary
• Kegel exercises

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