A cystocele is the loss of support of the anterior vaginal wall often related to childbirth or weight gain. This muscle weakness allows the bladder to fall into the vaginal vault and potentially pinch off the urethra – making it difficult for the bladder to empty.³

A rectocele is a weakness of the posterior vaginal wall often related to constipation. This weakness can create pressure on the urethra and make it difficult to pass urine.^1,4

Lastly, an enterocele is a vaginal wall weakness often caused by some sort of vaginal surgery. This weakness allows the small bowel to migrate into the vaginal vault, from the superior aspect of the vagina, often kinking the urethra and not allowing the bladder to empty.^1,5

Each of these defects can affect the positioning of the urethra resulting in the inability to completely empty the bladder. A pelvic exam can help identify and confirm pelvic floor prolapse.