Common Misdiagnoses of Cystocele

A cystocele, also called a prolapsed bladder, occurs when the connective tissue between a woman's bladder and vaginal walls stretches or weakens and eventually droops into the bladder. This condition may cause discomfort and a problem emptying the bladder. In some cases, the bladder may droop into the urethra, which may cause urine leakage during laughing, sneezing and other actions that put pressure on the bladder. The condition is exacerbated after menopause when a woman's estrogen levels decrease; the hormone helps support pelvic muscles.

Symptoms of Cystocele

A cystocele usually results from some type of strain on the muscles that support the pelvic organs. This strain may arise from childbirth, chronic coughing, heavy lifting or violent coughing.

Those with a cystocele may present the following symptoms:

• bulge inside the vagina
• feeling of bladder fullness when standing for long periods
• pain or urine leakage during sexual intercourse
• protrusion outside the vagina
• stress incontinence
• urinary incontinence
• urine leakage
• urine retention

If a cystocele is not properly treated, the woman may suffer from recurrent bladder infections.

Diagnoses of Cystocele

The diagnosis of a cystocele involves a physical examination followed by a pelvic examination. During the pelvic exam, the doctor will use a speculum to check the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and rectum to determine any changes in shape and size.

If a cystocele is diagnosed, the doctor will prescribe treatment based on the severity of the condition. If the case is mild, the treatment will be more conservative. The doctor may suggest the patient do self-care measures such as Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles.

Another option includes a vaginal pessary which is a rubber or plastic ring that is inserted in the vagina to push the bladder back into its proper position and maintain support of the bladder. If the patient has already gone through menopause, the doctor may prescribe estrogen therapy with a cream, pill or ring.

Common Misdiagnoses of Cystocele

Cystocele may be misdiagnosed as another condition such as interstitial cystitis, which is a type of bladder inflammation. Treatment for this condition differs from that for a cystocele, and a wrong treatment in either case may exacerbate the condition.

Talk with an Attorney

If you suffered harm due to a misdiagnosed cystocele, you may have a case of medical malpractice. If you can prove malpractice, you are due damages to cover the medical costs arising form the malpractice, as well as any lost wages and pain and suffering. Talk with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to discuss your case.