Do you need a referral for sacrocolpopexy?

Sacrocolpopexy is an operation that supports prolapsed pelvic organs, often using keyhole surgery and a surgical material to suspend the vaginal wall or other prolapsed tissue. It is not usually booked as a stand-alone procedure without a clinical assessment. A general practitioner, gynaecologist, or another clinician may start the referral. The specialist reviews your symptoms, examination findings, bladder and bowel concerns, previous operations, and personal treatment goals.

Referral rules can vary between clinics, hospitals, insurers, and routes of care in the UAE. Some services may accept a direct appointment, while others require a referral or prior approval. The clinic can tell you which documents are needed.

Ask your current clinician for a referral to urogynaecology and request that relevant records accompany it. Bring a list of symptoms, medicines, allergies, previous pelvic surgery, and any childbirth or menopause details that affect your care. Ask whether you need an examination, pelvic imaging, urine testing, or bladder assessment before the surgical discussion.

At the consultation, discuss non-surgical options, the planned route of surgery, recovery arrangements, and alternatives. You can contact the hospital directly to ask whether a referral is required before making an appointment.

A referral is not a reason to delay urgent assessment. Seek prompt medical care for heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or rapidly worsening pelvic pain, inability to pass urine, fainting, fever with feeling unwell, or a new painful bulge that cannot be pushed back. These symptoms need assessment to identify the cause and the right level of care.

Ask: Do I need a formal referral for this clinic? Which specialist should assess me? What records or tests should be sent? Is sacrocolpopexy appropriate for my type of prolapse? What alternatives and recovery support should I consider?