What characterizes cystocele among pelvic organ prolapses?

Cystocele is characterized by the descent of the bladder into the anterior wall of the vagina. This occurs when the supportive tissues between a woman's bladder and vagina weaken, allowing the bladder to bulge into the vaginal canal. This condition can be caused by factors such as childbirth, obesity, and aging, which all contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and supportive tissues.

In contrast, other conditions like rectocele refer to the descent of the rectum into the vagina, uterine prolapse involves the descent of the uterus into the vaginal canal, and descents in the posterior vaginal wall pertain to the weakening of the structures supporting these organs. Understanding the specific characteristics of each type of prolapse is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, particularly within the scope of women's health and preventive care.