What is Anterior Repair

The bladder and the vagina are no longer held up properly. The bladder is dropping down onto the front of the vagina, making a weakness or bulge. The bulge is called a prolapse. A prolapsed bladder is called a cystocele. The prolapsed bladder may not empty properly when you pass urine. The prolapse makes you feel uncomfortable in the vagina. You may also feel as if the bladder is full all the time. The prolapse happens if the supports to the bladder and vagina stretch during pregnancy and do not get back to normal properly afterwards. This may not show up until after the menopause. Having either a heavy job, a chronic cough, or being overweight will all bring on a prolapse earlier. An operation will tighten up the supports to the bladder and take away the bulge in the vagina.

The Operation

You will have a general anaesthetic and be completely asleep. A cut is made through the lining of the front (anterior) wall of the vagina. The supports to the bladder are shortened with stitches and the bulging part of the vagina cut away. This repairs the weakness. The wound in the vagina is then stitched up. You need to be in hospital for about three to four days.