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Colposuspension for Stress Incontinence
Colposuspension (often called a Burch Colposuspension) is a time-tested surgical procedure designed to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI). It works by providing permanent support to the bladder neck, preventing the involuntary leakage of urine during physical exertion. At Kinvara Hospital, we offer this as a highly effective, mesh-free surgical option for women who have not found relief through pelvic floor physiotherapy.
Medically Reviewed By
Mr Vasu Karri, Medical Director • Updated Updated 19-01-2026
For many women in Rotherham, stress incontinence is a restrictive condition that turns everyday moments - like laughing with friends or going for a run - into sources of anxiety. When the muscles and ligaments supporting the bladder neck become weak, any 'stress' or pressure on the abdomen can cause urine to leak.
At Kinvara Private Hospital, our specialist gynaecologists provide expert colposuspension surgery. This procedure is widely regarded as a 'gold standard' for long-term dryness, offering a durable solution without the use of synthetic mesh. Whether performed through a traditional 'bikini-line' incision or via minimally invasive laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, our goal is to help you regain control and confidence in your active life.
Am I a Candidate for Colposuspension?
• Confirmed stress urinary incontinence with urethral hyper-mobility on examination
• Failed conservative treatment (at least 3 months of supervised pelvic floor physiotherapy)
• Urodynamic testing confirming stress incontinence as the primary issue
• Completed your family (future pregnancies can compromise the repair)
• Good general health for surgery under general anaesthetic
• Preference for a mesh-free surgical approach
Colposuspension may also be recommended if you are having other pelvic surgery (such as a hysterectomy) at the same time. Our consultants will assess your individual circumstances to determine if this is the best option for you.
What is Colposuspension?
Unlike some modern treatments that use synthetic mesh tapes, colposuspension uses your own tissues and permanent stitches to create a 'hammock' of support.
By stitching the vaginal wall on either side of the bladder neck to the strong ligaments behind the pubic bone (Cooper's ligaments), the surgeon lifts the urethra into a more stable position. This ensures that when abdominal pressure increases, the urethra remains closed, preventing leaks.
At a Glance
Procedure Time
60-90 minutes
Anaesthetic
General or spinal anaesthetic
Hospital Stay
1-3 nights
Recovery Time
4-6 weeks to normal activities
Return to Work
4-6 weeks
Success Rate
80-90% cure or significant improvement
Benefits of Colposuspension at Kinvara Private Hospital
- High long-term success rates (up to 15-20 years of relief)
- Mesh-free surgical approach using native tissue
- Restores the ability to exercise and stay active without worry
- Reduces or eliminates the need for incontinence pads
- Consultant-led care in a private, supportive environment
- Option for laparoscopic (keyhole) techniques for faster healing
The Procedure
Before surgery, you will typically undergo urodynamic testing to confirm that stress incontinence is the primary cause of your symptoms. The surgery itself is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia.
- 1
**Pre-operative Assessment:** Urodynamic testing confirms the diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence. You'll discuss your symptoms, previous treatments, and surgical goals with your consultant.
- 2
**Surgical Access:** Most procedures are done via a small 'bikini-line' horizontal incision in the lower abdomen (similar to a C-section). Laparoscopic (keyhole) options may be available for suitable candidates.
- 3
**Suturing Technique:** The surgeon carefully places permanent stitches to elevate the tissues on either side of the bladder neck. These are attached to Cooper's ligaments (strong tissue behind the pubic bone) to create lasting support.
- 4
**Bladder Check:** A cystoscopy (looking inside the bladder with a camera) is performed at the end of the operation to ensure the bladder is healthy and the stitches are correctly placed without penetrating the bladder wall.
- 5
**Catheter Placement:** A urinary catheter is usually left in place for 24-48 hours to allow the bladder to rest. You'll be taught how to empty your bladder naturally before discharge.
- 6
**Post-operative Monitoring:** You'll stay in hospital for 1-3 nights with pain management and early mobilization to prevent blood clots. Follow-up appointments monitor healing and continence success.
Your Recovery Journey
Recovery Timeline
Days 1-2
Hospital stay with catheter in place. Pain management provided. Early gentle walking encouraged to prevent blood clots.
Week 1
Catheter removed and you begin passing urine naturally. Rest at home with light activities only. Some bladder urgency or temporary difficulty urinating is normal.
Weeks 2-4
Gradual increase in activities. Avoid heavy lifting (over 5kg). Most women can drive after 2-3 weeks if comfortable and not taking strong painkillers.
Weeks 4-6
Return to work for desk jobs. Continue avoiding heavy lifting and high-impact exercise. Sexual intercourse usually safe after 6 weeks.
6-12 Weeks
Full recovery. Can resume all normal activities including exercise and heavy lifting. Follow-up appointment to assess continence success.
Key Recovery Points
- Avoid heavy lifting (over 5kg) for at least 6-12 weeks
- Do not drive until comfortable and off strong painkillers (typically 2-3 weeks)
- Sexual intercourse should be avoided for 6 weeks
- Continue pelvic floor exercises to maintain long-term results
- Contact the hospital if you experience severe pain, fever, or inability to urinate
Risks and Safety
While colposuspension is a safe and well-established procedure, all surgeries carry some risks. Our expert surgeons take every precaution to minimize complications.
Voiding Difficulty
Approximately 10% of women experience temporary difficulty passing urine after surgery, which usually resolves within a few weeks.
Overactive Bladder
Some women develop urgency symptoms or urge incontinence after surgery. This can often be managed with medication.
Posterior Vaginal Wall Prolapse
There is a 14% risk of developing a rectocele (back wall prolapse) in the future, as the surgery lifts the front of the vagina.
Bladder Injury
Rare risk of bladder perforation during surgery, which would be repaired immediately if detected during the cystoscopy check.
Infection or Bleeding
As with any surgery, there is a small risk of wound infection, urinary tract infection, or bleeding requiring transfusion.
Recurrence
Success rates are high, but 10-20% of women may experience some return of symptoms over time, particularly if they have further pregnancies.
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