BLADDER PROBLEMS
You may notice something feels wrong with your vagina. You may feel extra tissue in your vagina that feels a little bit like a ball. Paired with pelvic and lower back discomfort, this may be a sign that you have a prolapsed bladder. Use this guide to understand common bladder prolapses causes, symptoms and treatment options.
In women, the pelvic floor muscles work in conjunction with the front wall of the vagina to support the bladder, a hollow organ that fills up with urine, signaling it’s time to go.
A prolapsed bladder, also known as anterior prolapse, cystocele prolapse or a fallen bladder, occurs when the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the bladder weaken or loosen, and the bladder is no longer supported, causing it to slouch against the vagina and create an obstruction or bulge in the vaginal cavity. Essentially, your bladder drops from its normal position, which can result in a loss of bladder control and urinary incontinence.
Here's what a prolapsed bladder can look like:
Bladder prolapse is separated into four grades, each characterized by how far the bladder has sunken into the vagina.
Prolapsed bladders in women are commonly associated with menopause. The lower levels of estrogen associated with menopause can cause the vaginal walls to weaken. If they deteriorate enough, the bladder is no longer supported and can fall into the vagina. This can cause urinary problems such as stress incontinence.
Other risk factors for bladder prolapse are:
Bladder prolapse is diagnosed only by a health care provider. If you think you have a prolapsed bladder, reach out to your doctor and tell him or her about the symptoms you have been experiencing. Together you can discuss a treatment plan.
The good news is that bladder prolapse is rarely a life-threatening condition. Most cases can be corrected non-surgically. Your treatment plan will depend largely on what grade prolapse you have.
If surgery is not needed, here are some at-home remedies to fix a bladder prolapse:
If you have severe bladder prolapse, surgery may be required. During surgery, a mesh support is inserted into the vaginal wall and the bladder’s position is corrected. This can be performed under general, regional or local anesthesia. Talk with your doctor for more information on surgery options and if it is required to fix your prolapsed bladder.
While you’re going through these treatments, it can be helpful to wear protection against little urine leaks resulting from your condition so you can feel as comfortable as possible. Always Discreet liners and pads come in a variety of different sizes and absorbencies to match urinary needs. Always Discreet liners and pads quickly turn liquid and odors into gel to keep you confident and comfortable throughout your day.
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