A prolapsed bladder, or cystocele, occurs when the bladder descends from its normal position and bulges into the vagina. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection affecting any part of the urinary system. This article examines the link between a prolapsed bladder and an increased risk of UTIs.
What Are Prolapsed Bladder and UTIs?
A prolapsed bladder, or cystocele, happens when the supportive ligaments and muscles around the bladder and vaginal wall weaken, allowing the bladder to sag into the vagina. Factors contributing to this weakening include vaginal childbirth, aging, decreased estrogen levels after menopause, and chronic straining from constipation, heavy lifting, or a persistent cough.
Urinary tract infections are bacterial infections of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common bacterium responsible for UTIs. UTIs are more prevalent in women due to their shorter urethra.
How a Prolapsed Bladder Increases UTI Risk
A prolapsed bladder increases the likelihood of developing UTIs due to altered anatomy and impaired bladder function. When the bladder sags, it can prevent complete emptying during urination. This incomplete emptying leaves residual urine, which becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
The physical displacement of the bladder also makes it challenging for the urethra to fully clear itself of bacteria. This allows bacteria to ascend into the bladder, leading to recurrent infections.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms of a prolapsed bladder include a feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvis, a sensation of something bulging in the vagina, or discomfort during sexual intercourse. Individuals may also experience difficulty fully emptying their bladder or urine leakage with activities like coughing or sneezing.
Symptoms of a UTI often involve a frequent and urgent need to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. Pelvic pain or lower abdominal discomfort can also occur. In some cases, a UTI can cause fever, chills, or lower back pain, indicating a more serious infection affecting the kidneys.
Treatment and Prevention Approaches
Conservative options for a prolapsed bladder include pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, to strengthen supporting muscles. Vaginal pessaries, devices inserted into the vagina, can also provide support. For more significant prolapse, surgical procedures like anterior colporrhaphy can reposition the bladder and strengthen the vaginal wall.
Active UTIs are treated with antibiotics. To prevent recurrent UTIs, ensuring complete bladder emptying is crucial. Techniques like double voiding, where you urinate, wait 20-30 seconds, then attempt to urinate again, can help.
Maintaining proper hygiene, such as wiping front to back, and staying well-hydrated to flush out bacteria are important preventive measures. Regular urination after sexual intercourse and managing constipation to avoid straining can further reduce risk. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential for diagnosis and a personalized treatment and prevention plan.