Pelvic Reconstruction Surgery — Restoring Pelvic Health
Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Shaivalini Kamarapu
MBBS · MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) · Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine · 20+ years of clinical experience
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What is pelvic reconstruction?
Pelvic reconstruction is used to treat pelvic floor issues in women. Pelvic floor reconstruction covers a range of surgical procedures used to treat pelvic organ prolapse — helping to restore the integrity and strength of the pelvic floor when its muscles are weakened or damaged, often due to childbirth.
These potential problems involve the urinary tract, rectum, vagina and other related structures. This field of medicine is called urogynecology.
Choosing between non-surgical and surgical care
There are non-surgical strategies that can strengthen the pelvic floor in some cases, including physical exercises and pessaries.
Surgery is considered once symptoms become too intrusive on daily life and non-surgical approaches haven't provided relief.
Non-surgical treatments
Pessary
A device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs — can also be fitted to target specific symptoms.
Kegel exercises
Targeted pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the supporting muscles.
Weight loss
Reducing pressure on the pelvic floor can ease symptoms in some cases.
Surgical treatment
Obliterative Surgery
Narrows or closes off the vagina to provide support for prolapsed organs. Sexual intercourse is not possible after this procedure.
Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructs the pelvic floor with the goal of restoring the organs to their original position. Some approaches are done through an incision within the vagina; others through an incision in the abdomen, or with laparoscopy.
A range of pelvic reconstruction procedures are available, using both robotic and traditional surgical approaches. Robotic-assisted surgery can be less invasive and more precise than traditional surgery, and may be used in some cases of vaginal prolapse. Surgery for pelvic organ prolapse can be approached through the vagina or through the abdomen.
Types of reconstructive surgery
Fixation or suspension using one's own tissues (uterosacral ligament suspension and sacrospinous fixation)
Anterior and posterior colporrhaphy
Sacrocolpopexy and sacrohysteropexy
Surgery using vaginally placed mesh
What to expect after surgery
After surgery, you can expect some discharge and spotting from the vagina for about 6 weeks, which reduces over time. If bleeding increases, contact your doctor immediately. Dissolving stitches are typically represented by a yellowish-white, watery vaginal discharge.