Vaginal Prolapse Repair

Learn more about vaginal prolapse surgery at King Edward VII’s Hospital

Why would I need vaginal prolapse surgery?

A vaginal prolapse can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Childbirth
• Chronic straining
• Genetic

What symptoms does vaginal prolapse surgery address?

Some women present no symptoms of a vaginal prolapse, but others might experience the following:

• Vaginal discomfort
• Heaviness in your lower abdomen and genitals
• The sensation of something coming into your vagina
• A bulge coming out of your vagina
• Stress incontinence
• Frequent urination
• Feeling as though your bladder is not fully emptying when you urinate
• Discomfort or numbness during sexual intercourse

When should you speak to your specialist about vaginal prolapse surgery?

If you have been experiencing any of the above symptoms, you might consider asking your specialist about examining you for a vaginal prolapse and if they find that you have one, you could discuss the potential of undergoing prolapse surgery.

How is vaginal prolapse surgery performed?

Vaginal prolapse surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic and the amount of time it takes can vary depending on the extent of your prolapse.

During the procedure, the surgeon will make incisions into the wall of your vagina and use stitches to strengthen the tissues.

What is the recovery for vaginal prolapse surgery?

After the surgery, you will have a catheter inserted and you will likely need to remain in hospital for 2-5 days.

Patients generally experience pain after the surgery, but this can be managed by taking over-the-counter pain medications. You will probably need to take several weeks off of work after your vaginal prolapse surgery and during this time you should avoid doing any strenuous activities.

You and your gynaecologist or surgeon will discuss what you can expect after your vaginal prolapse surgery and they will inform you of any specific directions that they have for your recovery.

Are there any risks/complications associated with vaginal prolapse surgery?

As with any medical procedure, it is possible for risks or complications to arise.

Some complications that have been associated with vaginal prolapse surgery include:

• Bleeding
• An infection
• Organ damage (bowel, bladder or ureters)
• Vaginal discharge
• Pain
• Discomfort during intercourse
• Deep vein thrombosis
• The need for further surgery

How can I prepare for vaginal prolapse surgery?

Prior to vaginal prolapse surgery you should discuss the specific preparations that you should make with your specialist or gynaecologist, because they can vary. It is very important that you speak with your gynaecologist or surgeon about any proposed treatments, their indications, risks and recovery.

Are there alternatives for vaginal prolapse surgery?

Depending on how severe your vaginal prolapse is, you might be able consider other options before you undergo surgery, including:

• Lifestyle changes – maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding strenuous exercises, etc.
• Pelvic floor exercises
• Hormone treatment – this can come in the form of a cream, tablet or vaginal ring
• Pessaries – devices that are inserted into the vagina that hold the walls and surrounding organs in place