Uterine and Vaginal Prolapse (Pelvic Organ Prolapse)

Uterine and Vaginal Prolapse (Pelvic Organ Prolapse)

Pelvic organ prolapse, commonly known as uterine or vaginal prolapse, is the downward displacement of organs within the pelvis due to the weakening of the muscles and connective tissues that support them. This condition directly impacts a woman’s quality of life, sexual health, and daily comfort. Prof. Dr. Selçuk Erkılınç, with his expertise in the field of urogynecology, offers modern surgical solutions that provide his patients with both functional and anatomical recovery.

Why Does Pelvic Organ Prolapse Occur?

Prolapse problems usually arise from a combination of multiple factors. The primary causes leading to the weakening of pelvic floor muscles include:

• Difficult Deliveries: Having given birth multiple times or delivering a large baby.

• Aging and Menopause: Connective tissues losing their elasticity due to a decrease in estrogen levels.

• Chronic Intra-Abdominal Pressure: Persistent coughing (asthma/COPD), chronic constipation, or heavy lifting.

• Genetic Factors: Inherently weaker connective tissue structure in some women from birth.

Types and Symptoms of Prolapse

Prolapse takes different names depending on the affected organ and manifests through various symptoms:

1. Cystocele (Bladder Prolapse)

The downward prolapse of the bladder through the anterior vaginal wall. Urinary incontinence, difficulty urinating, or a feeling that the bladder is not completely emptied are the most common symptoms.

2. Rectocele (Bowel Prolapse)

The prolapse of the final part of the large intestine through the posterior vaginal wall. It generally creates difficulty during bowel movements or a sensation of pressure pushing into the vagina.

3. Uterine Prolapse

The sagging of the uterus down into the vaginal canal and, in advanced stages, protruding outside the vagina. Patients typically present with complaints of “a mass at the vaginal opening” or “a palpable lump.”

Modern Treatment Methods with Prof. Dr. Selçuk Erkılınç

Prolapse treatment is planned according to the patient’s age, the severity of her complaints, and future desires to have children. Dr. Erkılınç applies advanced surgical techniques with high success rates that go beyond traditional methods.

1. Laparoscopic Sacropexy (Suspension Surgeries)

Considered the gold standard in prolapse treatment, this method involves suspending the prolapsed organs to the strong ligaments above using specialized medical meshes via the closed (laparoscopic) method. This approach preserves the natural anatomical position of the organs.

2. Vaginal Repair (Vaginoplasty)

The process of gathering the prolapsed tissues and strengthening the pelvic floor through the vaginal route without any external incisions. It is usually performed in conjunction with cystocele and rectocele repair.

3. Uterine-Preserving Prolapse Surgery

Removal of the uterus is not mandatory in every prolapse case. Prof. Dr. Selçuk Erkılınç demonstrates organ-preserving approaches particularly for patients who wish to retain their uterus, by solely repairing the prolapsed tissues and suspending the uterus upward.

Postoperative Life and Success Rates

Thanks to modern surgical techniques, the success rates of prolapse surgeries are remarkably high. The recovery process is much faster after operations performed with closed methods. Dr. Erkılınç manages a comprehensive follow-up process in the postoperative period, supporting the permanence of results with pelvic floor exercises (Kegel) and lifestyle recommendations.