How to Choose the Best Doctor for Bladder Prolapse (Cystocele) Surgery
What Every Woman Should Know Before Choosing a Specialist
If you’ve been diagnosed with a bladder prolapse, also known as a cystocele or fallen bladder, choosing the right doctor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Although bladder prolapse is a common pelvic floor disorder, every woman’s condition is unique, and treatment should be tailored to her symptoms, anatomy, and personal goals.
At Miklos & Moore, Dr. John Miklos and Dr. Robert Moore are board-certified urogynecologists specializing in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS). They evaluate women with bladder prolapse, pelvic floor disorders, urinary incontinence, and other pelvic support conditions to develop individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s needs.
Not every woman with a bladder prolapse requires surgery. Some benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy or a vaginal pessary, while others are candidates for reconstructive surgery. Choosing a physician who specializes in pelvic floor disorders helps ensure that all treatment options are considered before making a decision.
This guide explains what bladder prolapse is, who treats it, and what to look for when choosing a doctor.
What Is a Bladder Prolapse?
A bladder prolapse, or cystocele, occurs when the supportive tissues between the bladder and the front wall of the vagina become weakened or stretched.
As support is lost, the bladder begins to bulge into the vagina.
Bladder prolapse may develop because of:
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Aging
- Menopause
- Chronic heavy lifting
- Obesity
- Chronic constipation
- Previous pelvic surgery
The severity can range from mild to severe.
Common Symptoms
Women with bladder prolapse may experience:
- A vaginal bulge
- Pelvic pressure
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Frequent urination
- Urinary leakage
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Feeling that something is falling out
Some women have very few symptoms, while others experience significant discomfort.
Who Treats Bladder Prolapse?
Several specialists diagnose and treat cystocele, including:
- OB/GYNs
- Urologists
- Urogynecologists
Women with moderate or severe prolapse often choose to consult a board-certified urogynecologist because these physicians specialize in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.
What Should You Look for in a Bladder Prolapse Doctor?
Consider:
- Specialized pelvic floor training
- Experience treating cystocele
- Comprehensive evaluation
- Discussion of non-surgical options
- Experience with anterior repair
- Personalized treatment planning
- Clear communication
No two women require exactly the same treatment.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Depending on your symptoms, treatment may include:
- Pelvic floor therapy
- Vaginal pessary
- Lifestyle modification
- Observation
Surgery is recommended only when symptoms significantly affect quality of life.