What is a cystocele?

A cystocele specifically refers to the condition where the bladder bulges into the front wall of the vagina due to a weakening of the pelvic support structures, often as a result of childbirth or aging. In this condition, the tissue that normally supports the bladder becomes weakened or damaged, which allows the bladder to protrude into the vaginal wall. This can lead to various symptoms, including discomfort, urinary incontinence, and a feeling of pressure in the pelvic region. Understanding this condition is important for recognizing associated symptoms and determining effective treatment options.

The other options describe different medical conditions that do not pertain to the herniation of the bladder. For example, inflammation of the bladder is known as cystitis, the formation of a cyst in the kidney refers to renal cysts, and an infection of the urinary tract is termed a urinary tract infection (UTI). Each of these conditions has its specific causes, symptoms, and treatments, distinguishing them from a cystocele.