A minimally invasive procedure to reduce menstrual bleeding.
Cystocele and rectocele repair are surgical procedures used to treat pelvic organ prolapse when weakened tissues cause the bladder or rectum to bulge into the vaginal wall. These conditions can affect comfort, bladder or bowel function, and everyday activities.
The aim of repair surgery is to strengthen the supporting tissues and restore the vaginal walls to a more supportive position. Your gynaecologist will assess your symptoms, medical history and the severity of your prolapse to determine whether surgery is appropriate for you.
Cystocele and rectocele repair are procedures that treat different types of pelvic organ prolapse. A cystocele occurs when the bladder bulges into the front wall of the vagina, while a rectocele occurs when the rectum bulges into the back wall.
During surgery, the weakened supporting tissues are repaired and tightened to provide better support to the bladder or bowel and reduce the vaginal bulge.
The specific approach used will depend on the type and severity of prolapse and your individual circumstances.
Cystocele and rectocele repair may be considered when pelvic organ prolapse causes symptoms that significantly affect your quality of life.
You may experience symptoms if you:
Treatment depends on the severity of your prolapse and may include pelvic floor exercises, a pessary, lifestyle changes or surgery.
Cystocele and rectocele repair may be considered when prolapse symptoms continue despite non-surgical treatments or when other treatment options are not suitable.
Your gynaecologist will consider factors such as:
Important: Surgery is not always necessary for pelvic organ prolapse. Your doctor will discuss non-surgical options, expected benefits, risks and alternatives before recommending repair surgery.
During prolapse repair, your gynaecologist strengthens the weakened tissues supporting the vaginal wall.
For a cystocele, the front vaginal wall is repaired to provide better support to the bladder and urethra. For a rectocele, the back vaginal wall is repaired to improve support between the vagina and bowel.
The procedure is usually performed through the vagina, without external abdominal incisions. The exact technique will depend on your individual condition and the type of repair required.
Before recommending prolapse repair, your gynaecologist will assess your symptoms and examine the extent of the prolapse to determine whether surgery is appropriate for you.
You may need an examination, ultrasound or other investigations depending on your symptoms and medical history.
Your doctor will also discuss:
During the Procedure
The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthetic, although other anaesthetic options may be appropriate in some circumstances.
An incision is made in the affected vaginal wall. The weakened supporting tissues are tightened with stitches, and excess vaginal tissue may be removed to reduce the bulge.
What Can I Expect After Cystocele & Rectocele Repair?
Many people can return home on the same day, although some may need to stay overnight depending on their recovery and whether a catheter or other temporary treatment is required.
You may experience:
Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions about pain relief, activity, pelvic floor exercises and when you can return to your usual routine.
Recovery varies from person to person, so it’s important to follow the advice provided by your treating team.
Cystocele and rectocele repair may:
For many people, surgery can provide meaningful improvement, although symptoms or prolapse can recur over time.
Important Considerations
Prolapse repair is not suitable for everyone and does not guarantee that all symptoms will completely resolve.
There are also potential risks associated with the procedure, including infection, bleeding, bladder or bowel injury, pain during sex and recurrent or new prolapse. Your individual risks will depend on your health, the type of repair and your circumstances.
