Remedies for a Prolapsed Bladder

A prolapsed bladder (cystocele) occurs primarily in females when the walls of the vagina, which hold the bladder in its normal position, weaken. The bladder does not have enough support and slips from its correct position. Treatment ranges from muscle exercises to surgery.

Kegel Exercises

• For mild cases of a prolapsed bladder, the doctor may suggest at-home Kegel exercises. Kegels are a pelvic exercise used to strengthen the muscles that control the flow of urine. Regular Kegel exercises can strengthen the muscles of the vaginal wall, and are used to treat urinary incontinence.

  To perform a Kegel, sit on the floor and clench the muscles used to stop urinating. If your buttocks tightens but not your urethra or anus, it is being done incorrectly. Hold the muscles tight for three seconds, then release for three. Repeat 15 to 20 times 3 times a day. These exercises are only effective when done on a regular basis.

Estrogen Therapy

• Typically relegated to post-menopausal women, estrogen injections can aid in the strengthening of muscle tone.

Pessaries

• Pessaries are devices a doctor can insert into the vagina to hold the weakened muscles in place. They can be made of rubber, plastic, or silicone, and are fitted by the doctor to minimize discomfort.

Surgery

• Only used in the most extreme cases, surgery repositions and restores support to the bladder. This is accomplished through the insertion of stitches in the anterior and posterior walls of the vagina.