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What Is Cystocele Repair?

Cystocele repair is surgery to support a bladder that has bulged into the front wall of the vagina. A common method is anterior colporrhaphy, which reinforces weakened vaginal support tissue with stitches. The operation may reduce a vaginal bulge or pressure. The bladder itself is generally repositioned and supported rather than removed.

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What Is Cystocele Repair?

Cystocele repair is surgery to support a bladder that has bulged into the front wall of the vagina. A common method is anterior colporrhaphy, which reinforces weakened vaginal support tissue with stitches. The operation may reduce a vaginal bulge or pressure. The bladder itself is generally repositioned and supported rather than removed.

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When Is Cystocele Repair Considered?

A cystocele does not always need surgery. Repair may be considered when a vaginal bulge, pressure, or urinary symptoms remain bothersome. A pelvic examination helps determine the extent of prolapse and whether other structures are affected. Treatment options may include pelvic floor therapy or a vaginal pessary.

How Is Cystocele Repair Performed?

In an anterior colporrhaphy, the surgeon makes an incision in the front wall of the vagina. Stitches reinforce the tissue supporting the bladder, and the vaginal incision is closed. The operation is performed with anesthesia. Other procedures may be added if more than one area of pelvic support needs repair.

What Happens During Recovery?

Vaginal soreness, spotting, or discharge may occur during healing. The care team checks that the bladder empties properly after surgery. Patients may be advised to avoid heavy lifting, straining, and vaginal intercourse for a period of time. Follow-up assesses healing and any remaining symptoms.

What Are the Risks of Cystocele Repair?

Possible risks include bleeding, infection, bladder injury, and temporary difficulty emptying the bladder. Pain during intercourse or new urinary symptoms can occur. The prolapse may return after surgery. Individual risks depend on the repair and any other procedures performed at the same time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cystocele Repair

Is the bladder removed during cystocele repair?

No. The operation reinforces support for the bladder while leaving it in place.

Is cystocele repair the same as anterior colporrhaphy?

Anterior colporrhaphy is a common type of cystocele repair. Other surgical approaches may be considered depending on the prolapse.

Can urinary symptoms remain after surgery?

Yes. Repairing the prolapse may improve some symptoms, but urinary problems can have other causes.

Can a cystocele come back after repair?

Yes. The front vaginal wall can weaken again, and prolapse may recur.

References

About Your Cystocele Repair and Sling. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/cystocele-repair-and-sling. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Anterior vaginal wall repair. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://www.medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003982.htm. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Colporrhaphy: Purpose, Procedure, Results & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23324-colporrhaphy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Cystocele. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/cystocele. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Cystocele (Prolapsed Bladder): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15468-cystocele-fallen-bladder. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.