Prophylactic Midurethral Sling for Women Undergoing Prolapse Repair

Stress urinary incontinence may occur following surgical prolapse repair in women who did not have stress incontinence before surgery. When the prolapse is corrected during surgery, new mobility of the urethra may occur resulting in involuntary loss of urine with coughing, sneezing or exercise. The midurethral sling works to provide support to the urethra, preventing stress urinary incontinence.

Your doctor may suggest a midurethral sling be placed at the time of prolapse repair to prevent post-operative stress urinary incontinence.

Studies have shown women who received a prophylactic midurethral sling at the time of prolapse repair had lower rates of urinary incontinence when they were examined 3 months and 12 months after surgery. The risk for adverse events was higher in this group. You and your doctor will decide based on your exam and symptoms if a prophylactic sling is the best treatment option for you.