What is Bladder Prolapse?

Bladder prolapse, i.e. prolapse of the bladder, is the displacement of the bladder and pressure by sagging towards the vaginal wall. This may cause symptoms related to urination. While mild or moderate degrees are treated with different methods, severe cases may require surgical treatment. You can read the rest of the article for questions such as bladder prolapse treatment, symptoms of bladder prolapse.

What is Bladder Prolapse?

Bladder prolapse is a condition in which the bladder held by the pelvic muscles sags for some reason. The bladder, ie the urine bag, can sag into the vagina. It is more common in women who give birth normally. It occurs with the weakening of the ligaments that hold the bladder in the abdomen and pelvic floor.

What are the Symptoms of Bladder Prolapse?

Symptoms of bladder prolapse may not be very obvious in mild cases. Symptoms in moderate and advanced cases of bladder prolapse are as follows.

• Urinary incontinence
• Pain in the abdomen and pelvic region,
• Burning when urinating,
• Frequent urination,
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Symptoms of recurrent urinary tract infections are observed.

Who Has Bladder Prolapse?

Althoughbladder prolapse is usually seen in women over the age of 40, it can be seen in women of all ages. In some cases, it can be seen in women who have not given birth during menopause due to hormonal reasons. Estrogen hormone decreases after menopause. Accordingly, the tissue supporting the bladder weakens. Bladder prolapse can also be seen in people who smoke, suffer from obesity, experience constipation for a long time, and have genetics.

Why Does Bladder Prolapse Occur?

Bladder prolapse; It may occur as a result of excessive pressure on the pelvic floor, weakening of the muscles around the bladder or pelvic floor muscles. In women, events such as pregnancy, normal birth, menopause; It can occur as a result of situations such as heavy lifting or chronic cough. This problem can also be seen with ageing.

Bladder Prolapse Risk Factors

The likelihood of bladder prolapse may increase with some factors. Especially aging and giving birth are among the factors that increase this risk. Risk factors for bladder prolapse can be listed as follows.

• Ageing
• To have given birth
• Overweight or obesity
• Smoking
• Chronic constipation
• Chronic cough
• Continuous heavy lifting

How is Bladder Prolapse Diagnosed?

For the diagnosis of bladder prolapse, a physical examination is performed first. During the examination, the doctor examines the symptoms and medical history of the patient. Bladder and urine tests are performed. Diagnostic tests such as kidney function tests, complete urinalysis, urine culture are performed.

In some patients, symptoms may go unnoticed and may be diagnosed during a routine examination. A doctor can be consulted with urinary incontinence or fullness in the vagina. A gynaecological examination is required for definitive diagnosis.

How to Understand Bladder Prolapse?

Bladder prolapse; It can be understood by complaints of urinary problems and pain. Emptying the bladder can be challenging. Problems with urination, frequent urination, etc. may indicate that a doctor should be consulted. If there is a disturbing situation in daily life activities, a doctor should be consulted.

Bladder Prolapse Treatment

Bladder prolapse treatment is planned depending on the severity and symptoms of bladder prolapse in the patient. Doctor follow-up may be sufficient formild prolapse. No treatment may be applied. Exercises for pelvic floor muscles can be applied for moderate sagging. These exercises, called Kegel exercises, aim to strengthen the pelvic muscles.

After these treatment methods are applied, if the symptoms persist and no progress is seen, surgical treatment is considered. With the surgical operation, the prolapsed bladder is placed back into place and the excess tissue that develops due to prolapse is removed.