Hasn't there been ANY Progress!!!???

[southbarn]

I'm a woman in my mid 60's - 3 children - complete hysterectomy in my 40's (don't ask - a mis-diagnosis) who first noticed a cystocele about 7-8 years ago. I first saw a specialist some 5-6 years ago who diagnosed it a grade 3 and indicated a smaller rectocele (not noticed by me). Of course, regardless of exercises, etc., the cystocele has slowly become larger. NOW, the important thing to note here is that I have NO pain, no incontinence  and continue to have great sex. The only symptom (other than the nusiance buldge ) I've noticed in the past year or so seems to be a slight increase in difficulty voiding.

When my cystocele was first diagnosed I researched the surgical "cures" and was appalled at the success rates (poor) and concomitant unwanted side effects. I read this forum now it it sure looks like very little progress is being made! Being a firm believer in "if it ain't broke - don"t fix it" the last thing I want is to "create" incontinence or painful sex but realize that with more time my "inconvenience" will become likely worse. HOW MANY WOMEN ARE IN THIS SAME SPOT and WHAT IS BEING DONE?

[madgeOwens]

I can only say that for me, the surgery helped tremendously. It took away my horrific back pain............so I am really lucky and happy. I would have it repaired, but then you must be good and not lift anything heavy and keep yourself from becoming constipated.

[southbarn]

Thank you both for your comments. Yes, I am aware of both pelvic floor exercises & pessaries  (more uncomfortable than the problem itself).

I worry about "doing something" because, even though now relatively asymptomatic,  the cystocele & rectocele - as with all hernia types - WILL continue to get larger (and have). I am just appalled that another "women's" problem seem to be on the orphan list as far as progress. Long-term surgical success and avoidance of side effects appear to be at a standstill.

As far as the doctors go, I've yet to meet a surgeon that doesn't say "operate" (but with not even a reasonable assurances of success) & the first one I saw wanted to use an approach that was first developed in the 1930's!

I note, too, that the prestigious American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) does not even currently list their physician members for public access.

[madgeOwens]

If you are nnot being bothered by it, then I see no reason to worry about doing anything for it.  However I would be sure (ask doc) if by not repairing it now could it cause much more problems later, which then I would say have it repaired now.

[cmcn]

Hah!  How true!  No, there's not alot of progress in this arena.  And you are absolutely correct in your assumptions of DOING NOTHING since you have no symptoms.  There are physical therapists who specialize in pelvic floor strenghthening, and you may want to find one.  Most repair procedures involve the introduction of surgical mesh, and therein lies the problem, for the most part.  Mesh erodes through the mucosa, causing discomfort, and can become infected as well.  Many, many problems possible there.  Also, repair of the cystocele can actually cause new urinary problems, such as urinary retention, or urge urinary incontinence.  Oy!  Another thing to consider would be a pessary - if the exercises aren't working, it's an option.  You may need to try several different types before settling on one that works well for you.