Colposuspension Surgery in London
Colposuspension is an established surgical treatment for stress urinary incontinence in women. It works by supporting the bladder neck and upper urethra to help reduce leakage during coughing, laughing, lifting or exercise.
It is a non-mesh procedure and may be considered when pelvic floor rehabilitation has not provided enough improvement. Your consultant will explain whether it is an appropriate option for you and how it compares with other treatments.
What is colposuspension?
Colposuspension is an operation for stress urinary incontinence. Stress incontinence is urine leakage that occurs when pressure on the bladder increases, for example when you cough, sneeze, laugh, lift or exercise.
The procedure supports the tissues around the bladder neck and upper urethra. The bladder neck is where the bladder joins the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body. Improving support in this area can help the urethra stay closed more effectively during physical activity.
Colposuspension is a non-mesh operation. It uses stitches placed in your own tissues rather than synthetic mesh. It may be performed through open surgery or keyhole surgery, depending on your individual circumstances and the surgical approach recommended by your consultant.
How it works
Colposuspension aims to reduce stress leakage by improving support around the bladder outlet.
Assessment confirms the cause
Your consultant will assess the pattern of your leakage and confirm that stress urinary incontinence is the main cause of your symptoms.
The bladder neck is supported
During the operation, stitches are used to lift and support the tissues around the bladder neck and upper urethra.
Support without synthetic mesh
The procedure uses your own tissues and stitches. No synthetic mesh or tape is used.
Who colposuspension may suit
Colposuspension may be considered for women who:
- Have stress urinary incontinence confirmed by assessment
- Continue to experience troublesome leakage despite pelvic floor rehabilitation
- Would prefer to consider a non-mesh surgical option
- Are suitable for surgery following consultant assessment
- Would like to discuss alternatives to urethral bulking injections or other continence procedures
What to expect
- Assessment
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms, medical history and treatment priorities. Tests may include a bladder diary, urine test, bladder scan or urodynamic testing to assess how your bladder stores and releases urine. - The operation
Colposuspension is carried out under general anaesthetic. The surgeon supports the bladder neck using stitches placed in the tissues around it. The procedure may be performed through an open incision or by keyhole surgery. - Recovery
A short hospital stay may be needed. You will receive individual advice about pain relief, catheter use, wound care, returning to work and avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting while you heal.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for colposuspension in London?
An established non-mesh procedure
Colposuspension is a long-established operation that supports the bladder neck without using synthetic mesh.
Treatment based on careful assessment
Surgery is considered only when assessment confirms it is an appropriate option for the type and severity of your symptoms.
Clear discussion of alternatives
Your consultant will explain how colposuspension compares with other non-surgical and surgical treatments for stress incontinence.
Consultant-led care in London
You will be assessed and treated by a consultant urologist, with appointments available at The Forbury Clinic, 45 Queen Anne St, London W1G 9JF.
Frequently asked questions
Is colposuspension a mesh operation?
No. Colposuspension supports the bladder neck using stitches placed in your own tissues. It does not use synthetic mesh or tape.
How does colposuspension compare with a sling procedure?
Both procedures can be used to treat stress urinary incontinence. They differ in the surgical technique, recovery and potential risks. Your consultant will explain the options that may be suitable for you.
Will I need a general anaesthetic?
Yes. Colposuspension is performed under general anaesthetic. Your consultant and anaesthetist will discuss what this involves before surgery.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies depending on whether the procedure is performed through an open incision or keyhole surgery, as well as your general health and individual healing. You may need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for several weeks. Your consultant will provide personalised recovery advice.
What are the potential risks?
As with any operation, colposuspension carries potential risks. These can include bleeding, infection, difficulty emptying the bladder, changes in bladder symptoms or the need for further treatment. Your consultant will discuss the risks and expected benefits in detail before you decide whether to proceed.
Discuss surgery for stress urinary incontinence
If pelvic floor rehabilitation has not provided enough improvement, colposuspension may be an option to consider. Our consultant urologists can assess your symptoms and discuss the appropriate treatment choices with you.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
