Health Encyclopedia
Search Clinical Content Search Expanded Health Library
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings

Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Surgery for Vaginal Vault Prolapse

Vaginal vault prolapse is when the vagina loses its support and drops toward the opening. Sometimes it drops beyond the opening. This can happen after the uterus has been removed. Surgery is done to fix the problem and ease your symptoms.

Side view cross section of female pelvis showing a hysterectomy.
Normal post-hysterectomy anatomy.
Side view cross section of female pelvis showing vaginal vault prolapse.
Vaginal vault prolapse.

The surgical procedure

A vaginal vault suspension may be done. This type of surgery can be done through the vagina or the belly (abdomen). The vagina is attached to strong tissue in the pelvis or to the sacrum. This is a bone at the base of the spine that forms the back of the pelvis.

Possible risks and complications of surgery

  • Infection

  • Bleeding

  • Risks of anesthesia

  • Damage to nerves, muscles, or nearby pelvic structures

  • Blood clots

  • Prolapse occurring again

Your incisions

During surgery, the surgeon reaches your pelvic organs through the vagina or the belly. A cut (incision) may be made in the vaginal wall. If surgery through the belly is done, the surgeon makes a few small cuts to insert tiny laparoscopic tools. Or the surgeon makes one larger cut. This larger cut can be up and down (vertical) or across (transverse).

Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
Online Medical Reviewer: Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
Online Medical Reviewer: Irina Burd MD PhD
Date Last Reviewed: 8/1/2022
© 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Disclaimer