Bladder Prolapse (Cystocele)

What Is It?

Bladder prolapse (cystocele) is defined as the bladder, the organ that stores urine, dropping down from its normal position. It can develop as a result of childbirth or excessive weight gain, for example. It occurs mostly in women. The structure that keeps the bladder in its proper position is the pelvic floor muscles. When the pelvic floor muscles weaken, bladder prolapse can occur. Prolapse is classified by grade:

Grade 1 (mild): The bladder drops only a short way into the vagina.

Grade 2 (moderate): The bladder descends as far as the opening of the vagina.

Grade 3 (severe): The bladder bulges out through the vaginal opening.