Urethrocele

A urethrocele is the prolapse of the female urethra into the vagina. Weakening of the tissues that hold the urethra in place cause it to move and to put pressure on the vagina, leading to the descent of the anterior distal wall of the vagina. When it occurs with a cystocele, (involving the bladder as well as the urethra), it is termed a cystourethrocele.

Cause
Urethroceles are often caused by childbirth, the movement of the baby through the vagina causing damage to the surrounding tissues.

Symptoms
There are often no symptoms associated with a urethrocele. Where present, symptoms include stress incontinence, increased urinary frequency and difficulty in emptying the bladder.

Treatment
A urethrocele can be treated surgically.

Complications
A urethrocele can cause difficulty in urinating which may lead to cystitis.