What does pelvic floor repair surgery treat?

A cystocele occurs when the bladder pushes into the front wall of the vagina. A rectocele involves the rectum pressing into the back wall. Pelvic organ prolapse can cause pressure, a vaginal bulge, difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel, or discomfort during activity. Repair may reinforce or reshape weakened vaginal support tissues, depending on which compartment is affected.

Surgery is one option, not an automatic next step. Symptoms, examination findings, future pregnancy plans, general health and previous procedures all influence the discussion.

Ask the gynaecologist which organ is prolapsing, how severe the support change is and what improvement is realistic. Non-surgical care may include pelvic floor physiotherapy or a vaginal pessary fitting. Other operations, such as sacrocolpopexy, may be discussed when the pattern of prolapse or previous surgery makes another approach more suitable.

Before surgery, review medicines, bowel habits, bladder symptoms, recovery restrictions and the effect on sexual activity. Report new urinary or bowel changes rather than assuming they are part of prolapse.

Arrange an assessment for a new vaginal bulge, pelvic pressure, difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel, bleeding from rubbed tissue or symptoms that limit walking, exercise or sex. After surgery, seek urgent advice for heavy bleeding, fever, severe worsening pain, inability to pass urine or a wound that is opening.

Which type of prolapse do I have, and is repair necessary now? What non-surgical options could support me? Which operation is proposed, what tissues are repaired, and how will bladder or bowel symptoms be monitored during recovery?