Prolapsed Bladder and Incontinence: Symptoms, Treatment & Incontinence Products

What are the symptoms of a prolapsed bladder?

A prolapsed bladder, also called cystocele, happens when the bladder drops from its normal position and bulges into the vaginal wall. It’s a condition that can start with mild discomfort and progress to more serious symptoms if left untreated. Some women notice a heavy or full feeling in the pelvis, while others feel like something is pressing down in their vaginal area.

Urinary problems are a big red flag. You might feel like you can’t empty your bladder completely, or you could struggle with leaks when you sneeze, laugh, or lift something heavy. Some women experience frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) because urine gets trapped in the bladder. If the prolapse worsens, you might even see or feel tissue bulging from the vaginal opening.

When should you see a doctor for bladder prolapse?

If symptoms are mild and not affecting daily life, home management might be enough. But if you’re dealing with constant discomfort, frequent infections, or worsening incontinence, it’s time to check in with a doctor. A urogynecologist or pelvic floor specialist can assess the severity of the prolapse and recommend the best treatment options.

Signs that medical attention is needed include severe bulging tissue, difficulty urinating, painful intercourse, or recurring bladder infections. The sooner you address the issue, the easier it is to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

How does a prolapsed bladder cause incontinence?

Bladder prolapse and incontinence often go hand in hand. When the bladder shifts out of place, it can put extra pressure on the urethra, making it harder to control urine flow. Some women deal with stress incontinence, meaning they leak when they cough, laugh, or exercise. Others might develop urge incontinence, which brings sudden, intense urges to go—even when the bladder isn’t full.

In more severe cases, the bladder can fold in a way that prevents complete emptying. This urinary retention can lead to frequent dribbling or unexpected leaks later. The frustrating part? The symptoms can change throughout the day, sometimes making it hard to predict when leaks might happen.

Can a prolapsed bladder heal on its own?

It depends on how severe it is. A mild prolapse may not require treatment and might improve with pelvic floor exercises, weight management, and avoiding heavy lifting. But if the prolapse is moderate to severe, it’s unlikely to go away without medical intervention.

Without treatment, the condition can worsen over time. Some women try to manage symptoms by adjusting their daily habits—like avoiding constipation, staying active, and wearing incontinence products for security. But if discomfort or urinary problems start affecting daily life, it’s time to consider medical options.

Exercises to help with a prolapsed bladder

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles is one of the best ways to manage symptoms and prevent further prolapse. Kegel exercises are the go-to recommendation—these involve tightening and relaxing the muscles that control urination. To do a Kegel correctly, imagine stopping the flow of urine midstream, hold for a few seconds, then relax.

In addition to Kegels, deep core exercises and yoga poses that focus on pelvic stability can be helpful. Moves like bridges, pelvic tilts, and child’s pose gently engage the core and help with pelvic support. The key is consistency—doing these exercises daily can strengthen muscles and improve bladder control over time.

How to manage bladder prolapse at home

Living with a prolapsed bladder means making small adjustments to reduce strain on the pelvic area. Avoiding heavy lifting is key—if you have to lift something, bend at the knees instead of straining your core. Staying hydrated and eating fiber-rich foods can help prevent constipation, which puts extra pressure on the bladder.

If leaks are a problem, scheduled bathroom breaks can help prevent accidents. Some women find that avoiding caffeine and alcohol reduces bladder irritation and improves control. Wearing supportive underwear and choosing loose, comfortable clothing can also help ease pressure on the lower abdomen.

What are the treatment options for bladder prolapse?

Treatment depends on the severity of the prolapse and how much it’s affecting daily life. For mild cases, doctors often recommend pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels) and lifestyle changes to reduce strain on the pelvic area. Pessaries—small, removable devices placed in the vagina—can provide support and prevent further bladder descent.

For moderate to severe prolapse, surgery may be necessary. Procedures like anterior vaginal wall repair help restore the bladder’s position and strengthen the surrounding tissues. In some cases, sling procedures or mesh implants are used to provide additional support. If incontinence is a major concern, the surgeon may recommend additional procedures to improve bladder control.

Best incontinence products for bladder prolapse

Since leaks are common with a prolapsed bladder, having the right incontinence products can make a big difference. A lot of people find that SPC incontinence products are the best quality available on the market. Absorbent pads and liners offer protection against light to moderate leaks, while adult diapers or protective underwear work well for those who experience frequent leakage.

For nighttime security, waterproof mattress protectors and underpads can help keep bedding dry. Some women also find bladder control pessaries useful, as they provide support and reduce leakage during physical activity. Finding the right product depends on individual needs—some prefer discreet, thin pads, while others need more coverage for peace of mind.

San Pablo Commercial is a family-owned, small business with a mission to deliver affordable high quality medical supplies to their customers. We offer a variety of incontinence products including SPC disposable underpads, reusable incontinence underwear, sanitary pads, and more. We care deeply about our customers and want to make ordering incontinence supplies easier so that they can spend less time cleaning up spills and messes.