UGSA Colpocleisis Information Sheet

Colpocleisis involves removing the vaginal skin from the front and back wall of the vagina and then stitching the remaining skin closed. This pushes the prolapsing tissue back into the pelvis. It can be performed with or without the uterus present. If the uterus remains, two channels are created on either side of the vaginal wall. This allows any uterine bleeding to become apparent. The vagina ends up being around 3–4 cm long. As mentioned above, if there is stress incontinence (leakage of urine with cough/sneeze/laugh or activity) present either before the surgery, or if it is likely that stress incontinence will occur after the surgery, an incontinence procedure (sling or urethral bulking agent) can be performed at the same time. A perineorrhaphy, where the vaginal opening is narrowed, is also performed to reduce the risk of recurrent prolapse. The image below illustrates a normal vagina and after colpocleisis.