Colpocleisis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
Colpocleisis is surgery to partially or completely close the vagina of an older woman with genital prolapse. It is done if you are too weak for other surgeries and are not sexually active. After surgery, you may have some pain and bleeding. The pain and bleeding should get better within 1 week.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call 911 if:
- You feel lightheaded, short of breath, and have chest pain.
- You cough up blood.
Seek care immediately if:
- Your leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- You have heavy bleeding.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have a foul smelling discharge.
- You have a fever, cough, or chills.
- You have pain that does not get better after you take medicine.
- You have abdominal pain.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicine:
You may be given any of the following:
- Antibiotics help prevent a bacterial infection.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Incision care:
Wear a sanitary pad to monitor bleeding. Do not take a bath or get in a pool or hot tub until your healthcare provider says it is okay. He or she may give you information on how to take a sitz bath. Change your sanitary pad regularly. Keep track of how often you change the pad.
Self Care:
- Do not drive until your healthcare provider says it is okay.
- Prevent blood clots. Get up and move around your house several times a day.
- Avoid activities that may put pressure on your surgery area. Do not lift anything more than 5 pounds. Do not push or pull objects.
- Drink liquids and eat foods with fiber. Liquids and fiber will help you not strain to have bowel movements. Ask your healthcare provider which liquids are best for you. Ask him or her how much you should drink every day. Ask if you should take a fiber supplement. Foods with fiber include fruits, bran, and whole-grain breads.
Follow up with your surgeon as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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