Colposuspension

This surgical option may be done using keyhole surgery, which is less invasive than open surgery.

• If abdominal surgery is needed, this is more invasive than keyhole and has a longer recovery time.
• When used, permanent stitches stay in the body.
• There is a higher risk of wound complications like infection than with urethral bulking agents and mesh/tape slings.
• There is a risk of future vaginal prolapse (which may need further surgery).

• You could develop vaginal prolapse (where pelvic organs move out of their normal position), especially at the back part of your vagina (rectocele). This means the back wall of your vagina may push into the canal of your vagina and you may need further surgery.
• If permanent stitches are used, there is a risk they could push into your vagina.
• You may have persistent pain after this type of surgery.
• If the repair is too tight and you have ongoing difficulty passing urine, you may need further surgery to correct this.

For abdominal surgery

• The average stay in hospital is 1 to 3 days (including the day of surgery)
• It is normal to have 4–6 weeks off work.

For keyhole surgery

• The average stay in hospital is 1 to 2 days (including the day of surgery)
• It is normal to have 2 weeks off work.