Vaginal Prolapse

For vaginal prolapse treatment options, please contact Dr. Richard M. Wasserman. In order to fully understand vaginal prolapse (uterine and vaginal relaxation) the normal anatomy must be addressed. The structures involved are the uterus, bladder, urethra, and rectum. These structures are supported by connective tissue called fascia.

Defects in the fascia allow the bladder, rectum uterus or in a post hysterectomy patient the vaginal cuff to herniate or prolpase into the vagina. The location of the fascia defect determines the area of prolapse and the treatment options.

The upper fascia that supports the bladder and urethra is called the pubocervical fascia. The rectum is supported by the rectovaginal septum. Upper or “apical” support is dependent upon the uterosacral ligaments with are secured to the uterus. The pubocervical fascia and rectovaginal septum are attached to the cervix. The upper portion of this connective tissue is dependent upon its attachment to the cervix.

Below is a diagram of normal female anatomy. Compare the below to the diagrams on our other website pages that show types of prolapse: cystocele, enterocele, and rectocele.

• Vaginal Prolapse (you are here)
• Cystocele
• Rectocele
• Uterine Prolapse
• Enterocele
• Female Urinary Incontinence
• Stress Urinary Incontinence
• Overactive Bladder
• Mixed Urinary Incontinence