Gynecological Procedures

What does my doctor mean by “pelvic floor” and “prolapse”?

The term “pelvic floor” describes the group of muscles in the pelvis that support the bladder, bowel, vagina and uterus. When these muscles lose their strength and tone, they are said to “prolapse.” This is extremely common in women – it’s thought that more than half of all women over age 55 have some form of this problem. Heredity, childbirth, obesity and menopause are all contributing factors.

Your doctor may have mentioned the following terms:

Prolapsed uterus – occurs when the uterus is significantly lower than its normal position.
Cystocoele – prolapse of the bladder
Urethrocoele – prolapse of the urethra (the tube coming from the bladder)
Rectocoele – prolapse of the back wall of the vagina
Enterocoele – prolapse of the small intestines into the back wall of the vagina

It is common for more than one of these conditions to be present at the same time. Women who experience a prolapsed uterus may have the sensation of heaviness or pulling in their pelvis. Some women feel as though something is “falling out” of their vagina. They may also experience low back pain and pain during intercourse.

Why do I have to wait so long for my pelvic floor repair?

Your pelvic surgery will likely be seen as “elective.” As a result of rationing of care by the Canadian public health system and limited operating room times for surgeons, this means your surgery may be delayed and will be subject to being cancelled. Timely Medical Alternatives can help you find a private clinic to expedite your case so you can get the surgery you need as quickly as possible.

What happens during a pelvic floor repair or prolapsed uterus repair?

Pelvic floor repair surgery can use your own tissue, donor tissue or a synthetic mesh material to support the organs in the pelvis. Doctors sometimes prefer to perform this surgery vaginally because this procedure is associated with less pain.

Another possible lower-pain alternative is laparoscopic surgery. With this technique the surgeon uses a very small telescope/camera to examine the inside of your body while you are asleep under a general anesthetic. He or she then makes the necessary repairs via a very small incision, using specialized instruments.

If you require a full hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or have other complications, however, you will require full abdominal surgery. Your surgeon can discuss all your options with you and help you make the best decision.

How long will it take me to recover from pelvic surgery?

Recovery time will depend on your medical condition and the nature of your surgery. Recovery from a laparoscopic surgery will likely be a week to 10 days. Recovery from vaginal or full abdominal surgery will likely be longer. Total recovery time will also depend on your typical activity level and the amount of lifting and carrying you need to for your work or around the home.