Colpocystocele is a medical term used to describe a specific type of vaginal prolapse. The spelling of this word can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /kɒl.pəʊ.sɪs.təʊ.siːl/. The first syllable is pronounced "kol" with a short "o" sound, followed by "po" with a long "o" sound. The third syllable is pronounced "sis" while the fourth syllable is pronounced "to" with a long "o". The final syllable is pronounced "see" with a long "e" sound and "l" is silent.
Colpocystocele is a medical term primarily used in gynecology to describe a pelvic organ prolapse, specifically the protrusion or descent of the urinary bladder and the front wall of the vagina into the vaginal canal. It is a common condition in women, typically resulting from weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues, often due to childbirth, aging, obesity, chronic coughing, or intense physical activity.
The term "colpocystocele" is derived from the Greek words "kolpos" meaning "vagina," "cysto" meaning "bladder," and "cele" meaning "protrusion." In a colpocystocele, the weakened supportive structures in the pelvic region allow the anterior vaginal wall and the bladder to herniate into the vaginal canal. This can lead to various symptoms, including a bulge or sensation of pressure in the pelvis, a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder, urinary incontinence, discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
Diagnosis of colpocystocele often involves a physical examination, where the prolapse is visually assessed and classified based on its severity. Treatment options may include conservative measures such as pelvic floor exercises or using a pessary, a device inserted into the vagina to provide structural support. In more severe cases or if conservative methods fail to alleviate symptoms, surgical intervention may be considered, such as vaginal or laparoscopic repairs to restore the pelvic organ position and strengthen the surrounding tissues.
Overall, colpocystocele is a medical term used to describe the descent of the bladder and anterior vaginal wall into the vaginal canal, and its management depends on the severity of symptoms and the individual patient's preference.
Prolapse of the bladder into the vagina.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "colpocystocele" is derived from three Greek roots: "kolpos", meaning "vagina", "kystis", meaning "bladder", and "kele", meaning "hernia" or "prolapse". Combined, they describe a medical condition in which the bladder protrudes into the vagina.