Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery: Anterior and Posterior Vaginal Repair

Pelvic organ prolapse can make everyday life uncomfortable. You may feel pelvic pressure, notice a bulge in the vagina, leak urine, or have trouble with bowel movements. When these symptoms start affecting your comfort and daily routine, pelvic organ prolapse surgery may be the best way to restore support and relieve symptoms.

At Carolina Urology Partners, we provide pelvic organ prolapse surgery for women in Charlotte, NC, and Columbia, SC. Our specialists evaluate your symptoms, explain your options, and recommend the treatment that best fits your needs.

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the muscles and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs weaken. As a result, the bladder, rectum, or other pelvic organs can shift downward and press into the vaginal canal.

Pelvic organ prolapse surgery repairs these weakened support structures.

The goal of surgery is to restore support and move these organs back into a more normal position. This can relieve symptoms such as:

• Pelvic pressure or heaviness
• A visible vaginal bulge
• Urinary leakage
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Trouble with bowel movements

Two common types of pelvic organ prolapse surgery are anterior vaginal repair and posterior vaginal repair. Your surgeon may recommend one procedure or a combination of procedures based on your symptoms and exam findings.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that supports the bladder, uterus, and rectum.

These structures act like a hammock. When they weaken, the pelvic organs can shift downward.

The front wall of the vagina helps hold the bladder in place. When the supporting tissue stretches or weakens, the bladder can drop and press into the vaginal canal. This is called a cystocele.

The back wall of the vagina provides support for the rectum. When that support breaks down, the rectum can push forward into the vagina. This is called a rectocele.

Pregnancy, vaginal childbirth, aging, and menopause are common reasons this support system weakens over time.

Not every woman with prolapse needs surgery.

Many women get symptom relief with pelvic floor therapy or a pessary. These options can be especially helpful in earlier stages.

Pelvic organ prolapse surgery may be recommended when:

• You notice a bothersome vaginal bulge
• Pelvic pressure affects your daily activities
• Urinary or bowel symptoms continue
• Conservative treatments no longer provide enough relief
• You want a more lasting repair

Your provider will review your symptoms, exam findings, and treatment goals before recommending surgery.

Anterior vaginal repair treats a cystocele, which happens when the bladder bulges into the front wall of the vagina.

During this procedure, your surgeon tightens the weakened connective tissue that supports the bladder. This helps move the bladder back into its normal position.

Anterior vaginal repair can improve symptoms such as:

• Pelvic pressure
• A vaginal bulge
• Urinary leakage
• Difficulty emptying the bladder

In some cases, your surgeon may also check for urinary incontinence, since bladder leakage and pelvic organ prolapse often occur together.

Posterior vaginal repair treats a rectocele, which happens when the rectum bulges into the back wall of the vagina.

During this procedure, your surgeon repairs and reinforces the tissue between the rectum and vagina. This restores support and reduces bulging.

Posterior vaginal repair can improve symptoms such as:

• A vaginal bulge
• Difficulty with bowel movements
• The feeling of incomplete emptying
• The need to press on the vagina to have a bowel movement

In some cases, the tissues between the vagina and rectum are also strengthened to improve support.

Pelvic organ prolapse surgery is performed under anesthesia. Depending on the extent of repair, you may go home the same day or stay in the hospital overnight.

During the first few weeks, it’s normal to have:

• Mild vaginal soreness
• Swelling
• A feeling of pressure
• Temporary changes in urination or bowel habits

To protect the repair, you’ll need to:

• Avoid heavy lifting
• Prevent constipation
• Limit strenuous activity
• Follow your surgeon’s instructions closely

Most women begin feeling better within a few weeks. Healing continues over the next several months.

Pelvic organ prolapse surgery can restore support to the bladder, rectum, and vaginal tissues. This can relieve pressure, reduce bulging, and improve bladder and bowel function.

You don’t have to keep managing these symptoms on your own. Carolina Urology Partners offers pelvic organ prolapse surgery in Charlotte, NC, and Columbia, SC. Our team will help you understand every option before moving forward. Schedule a consultation today.

1. Will pelvic organ prolapse surgery affect sexual function?

Most women can return to sexual activity after healing, which usually takes about six weeks. Many find intercourse becomes more comfortable after prolapse symptoms improve.

2. Is mesh used in pelvic organ prolapse surgery?

Anterior and posterior vaginal repairs are typically performed using your own tissue. In some cases, mesh or graft materials may be considered based on your condition and treatment goals.

3. How long does pelvic organ prolapse surgery last?

These repairs are designed to provide long-term support. Many women experience lasting symptom relief, especially when they follow recovery instructions and avoid heavy straining.

4. Can pelvic organ prolapse come back after surgery?

Yes, pelvic organ prolapse can come back over time. Factors such as tissue strength, aging, chronic constipation, and heavy lifting can affect how long the repair lasts. Following your surgeon’s recommendations can help support long-term results.