Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery in Turkey

Pelvic organ prolapse surgery repairs the weakened support structures that hold your pelvic organs in place. There are several types of prolapse, and the surgical approach depends on which organs are affected.

Types of prolapse:

• Cystocele (anterior prolapse), the bladder drops into the front vaginal wall
• Rectocele (posterior prolapse), the rectum pushes into the back vaginal wall
• Uterine prolapse, the uterus descends into the vaginal canal
• Vault prolapse, the top of the vagina drops after a previous hysterectomy

Surgical repair typically involves strengthening the pelvic floor using your own tissues (native tissue repair) or, in some cases, mesh reinforcement. The approach may be vaginal (through the vagina, with no visible incision) or abdominal (laparoscopic or open, depending on the type of prolapse).

In some cases, a hysterectomy may be performed at the same time if uterine prolapse is significant and you have completed your family. Your surgeon will discuss all options during your consultation.

The procedure typically takes 1-3 hours depending on the type and extent of repair needed.

You may be suitable for prolapse surgery if conservative treatments have not adequately managed your symptoms.

You may be a good candidate if:

• You have a symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (grade 2 or above)
• Physiotherapy and pelvic floor exercises have not resolved your symptoms
• Pessary use has not been effective or comfortable
• You experience bothersome symptoms such as heaviness, bulging, urinary difficulties, or bowel problems
• You have completed your family

You may not be suitable if:

• Your prolapse is mild and responds to physiotherapy
• You are planning future pregnancies (pregnancy can worsen or recur prolapse)
• You have significant health conditions that increase surgical risk

Before your procedure

A detailed consultation assesses the type and grade of your prolapse, reviews your symptoms and treatment history, and discusses surgical options. Physical examination and imaging help your surgeon plan the repair.

On the day

You are admitted to hospital. The procedure takes 1-3 hours under general or spinal anaesthesia. Your surgeon repairs the weakened support structures using the approach best suited to your specific prolapse.

Hospital stay (3 nights)

You are monitored for pain, bladder function, and healing. A catheter may be in place for 1-2 days. You are encouraged to walk gently from day 1. Your surgeon checks the repair before discharge.

Hotel recovery (7 nights)

The extended hotel stay allows thorough recovery before travelling. You can attend follow-up appointments, rest, and build confidence with gentle walking before your flight home.

Prolapse surgery requires a longer recovery period than many other procedures, and following your surgeon's guidance is essential for a successful outcome.

Days 1-3 (hospital): Pain managed with medication. Catheter removal (usually day 1-2). Gentle walking encouraged. Light diet.

Days 4-10 (hotel): Gradually increasing mobility. Short walks. Continue prescribed medications. Avoid straining, heavy lifting, and prolonged standing.

Weeks 2-4: Light activities at home. No heavy lifting, no strenuous exercise, no sexual intercourse. Pelvic floor exercises may be recommended from week 2.

Weeks 4-6: Progressive return to normal activities. Continue avoiding heavy lifting.

Weeks 6-8: Most patients return to normal activities including work. Sexual intercourse may be resumed once your surgeon confirms healing (usually 6-8 weeks).

Long-term: Continued pelvic floor exercises help maintain the repair. Avoid chronic straining, heavy lifting, and maintain a healthy weight.

Prolapse surgery is a common procedure with generally good outcomes, but all surgeries carry risks.

Common effects:

• Pelvic discomfort during recovery
• Temporary urinary symptoms (urgency, frequency)
• Vaginal discharge during healing
• Fatigue

Less common risks:

• Infection (managed with antibiotics)
• Bleeding
• Urinary retention (temporary)
• Prolapse recurrence (risk reduced with pelvic floor exercises)
• Painful intercourse after surgery (uncommon, usually temporary)
• Mesh-related complications (if mesh is used, discussed with you beforehand)

Your surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon in a government-licensed hospital with a 3-night hospital stay.