Colpocleisis: What It Is, Types, Success Rates and Recovery
Updated: 6 days ago
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026 · How we review
Quick Answer: What is colpocleisis?
Colpocleisis is a surgery for severe pelvic organ prolapse that stitches the vaginal walls together so the bladder, uterus or rectum can no longer bulge out. It takes about an hour, often allows same-day discharge and cures or greatly improves symptoms in 98.4% of cases, but vaginal intercourse is no longer possible afterward. [1]
What the research says
Success is high and regret is low. A review of 49 studies found that 87.5–100% of patients had no prolapse past the vaginal opening after surgery, 88–100% felt their surgery succeeded, and regret over losing intercourse ranged from 0% to 12.9%. (Grzybowska et al., Int Urogynecol J, 2022)
Adding a hysterectomy lengthens surgery but doesn't raise complications. In a meta-analysis of 1,423 patients, removing the uterus at the same time added about 28 minutes and 18 mL of blood loss, while complication rates, transfusions and hospital stay were similar. (Zacharakis et al., Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol, 2025)
Earlier prolapse surgery roughly doubles the chance of recurrence. Across 2,978 patients, women who had a previous prolapse operation were about twice as likely to see prolapse return (relative risk 2.09); age and a past hysterectomy made no difference. (Nahshon et al., Int J Gynaecol Obstet, 2023)
Key takeaways
Colpocleisis treats severe pelvic organ prolapse by closing most of the vaginal canal.
It is most common in women aged 70 to 80, but there is no strict age limit.
Le Fort (partial) colpocleisis is for people who still have a uterus; total colpocleisis is for people who have had a hysterectomy.
Surgery takes about one hour; many people go home the same day.
Vaginal intercourse is permanently ruled out, but clitoral stimulation and orgasm remain possible.
Most people feel back to normal within two to six weeks.
Colpocleisis at a glance
Feature | What to expect |
Treats | Severe pelvic organ prolapse |
Typical patient | Older women who no longer plan vaginal intercourse |
Surgery time | About 1 hour |
Anesthesia | General (asleep) or regional (awake but numb) |
Hospital stay | Same day or one night |
Success rate | Cures or significantly improves symptoms in 98.4% of cases |
Vaginal length after | About 1 inch (down from about 4 inches) |
Follow-up visit | 4–6 weeks after surgery |
Back to work | Up to 6 weeks |
Permanent changes | No vaginal intercourse; no Pap smear or transvaginal ultrasound |
What is colpocleisis?
Colpocleisis is a type of surgery that treats pelvic organ prolapse (POP) by sewing the vaginal canal closed. The pelvic organs include the vagina, uterus, urethra, bladder and rectum. Muscles and connective tissue normally hold them in place. [1]
When the pelvic floor muscles and tissues weaken, these organs can sag into the vagina. In severe cases, they bulge out of the vaginal opening. [1]
Colpocleisis is called an "obliterative" surgery. Instead of rebuilding the support structures, it closes the space the organs fall into. Once the vaginal walls are joined, the organs cannot drop down again. [1]
Who is a good candidate for colpocleisis?
Colpocleisis is a good fit for people with severe prolapse who no longer plan to have vaginal intercourse. It is most common in women between 70 and 80 years old, though it can be done at any age. [1]
Your provider may suggest it if you:
Have severe prolapse with organs bulging from your vagina
No longer plan to have vaginal intercourse
Have health conditions that make reconstructive surgery, such as sacrocolpopexy, too risky
Because it needs less anesthesia, less operating time and causes fewer problems around surgery, it is often preferred for women with several medical conditions. [7] Results also hold up in women whose prolapse came back after an earlier reconstructive repair. [5]
What is the difference between Le Fort and total colpocleisis?
The difference between Le Fort and total colpocleisis is whether a drainage path is left for the uterus. Both types stitch the front and back vaginal walls together. [1]
Total (complete) colpocleisis: The vaginal canal is shortened so sagging organs are pushed back into place. This is often the better option if you've had a hysterectomy. [1]
Partial (Le Fort) colpocleisis: The surgeon leaves two small tunnels inside the vaginal canal. These let fluid and blood from the uterus drain out. This is the best option if you still have a uterus. [1]
Partial (Le Fort) | Total (complete) | |
Best for | People who still have a uterus | People who have had a hysterectomy |
Vaginal walls | Stitched together | Stitched together |
Drainage tunnels | Two small tunnels left | None needed |
Needs a hysterectomy? | No | Already done |
Most people with a fallen uterus do not need it removed during colpocleisis. [5] When a hysterectomy is added, the operation runs longer but complication risk stays about the same. [3]
What happens before colpocleisis surgery?
Before colpocleisis, your provider checks that you are healthy enough for surgery. This includes reviewing your medical history, asking about your symptoms and ordering imaging or blood tests. [1]
Your provider will also walk you through two permanent changes:
No vaginal intercourse. The vaginal canal becomes too short for sex. This cannot be undone. [1]
Harder gynecologic screening. You won't be able to have a Pap smear or a transvaginal ultrasound afterward. [1]
If you have a high risk of certain diseases, your provider may suggest extra surgery to prevent them. For example, a hysterectomy may be advised if your risk of uterine cancer is high. [1]
You'll get instructions for the days before surgery, such as fasting or changing some medicines. Follow them closely, and call your provider with any questions before the day of surgery. [1]
How does colpocleisis surgery work?
Colpocleisis surgery takes about an hour and is done entirely through the vagina. Step by step, your provider will: [1]
Give you general anesthesia (you're asleep) or regional anesthesia (you're awake but feel no pain)
Place a urinary catheter to drain your bladder during surgery
Remove a section of the lining from the vaginal walls
Stitch the vaginal walls together with dissolvable stitches so the organs can't drop
With a Le Fort procedure, two tunnels are left open so fluid and blood can drain. [1]
After surgery, the vaginal canal is much shorter — about 1 inch instead of about 4 inches — and the vaginal opening is much smaller. Your vulva (external genitals) looks the same. [1]
What happens right after colpocleisis?
Right after colpocleisis, you may go home the same day or stay one night in the hospital. Before you leave, your provider decides whether to remove your catheter or have you keep it for a few days. If you go home with one, you'll be taught how to use it. [1]
Common symptoms while you heal include: [1]
Symptom | What's normal | How to manage it |
Vaginal bleeding and perineal pain | Improves within 1–2 weeks | Over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen |
Yellowish vaginal discharge | Stitches dissolving; healing takes 6–8 weeks | No action needed if it doesn't smell bad |
Trouble emptying the bladder | Usually improves within a few days | A temporary catheter if needed |
May last a few weeks | Stool softeners or laxatives |
How long is colpocleisis recovery?
Colpocleisis recovery usually takes two to six weeks. Expect to feel tired and sore for about two weeks. [1]
Within a few days to a few weeks, most people feel well enough to walk and drive. Returning to work may take up to six weeks. Your follow-up visit is usually four to six weeks after surgery. [1]
To make healing easier: [1]
Stock up on groceries and finish errands before surgery
Avoid intense exercise and heavy lifting while you heal
Ask your provider which activities to avoid and for how long
What are the benefits of colpocleisis?
The main benefit of colpocleisis is a very high success rate: it cures or significantly improves prolapse symptoms in 98.4% of cases. [1] Other reviews report long-term success above 95%, low regret, high satisfaction and better body image. [7]
It is also a shorter, gentler operation than reconstructive surgery, with less anesthesia and fewer problems around the time of surgery. [7]
Although vaginal intercourse is no longer possible, a healthy sex life is still possible. Clitoral stimulation and orgasm are not affected. [1]
What are the risks of colpocleisis?
The risks of colpocleisis are similar to those of any surgery: [1]
Bleeding or injury to a muscle or nerve
Blood clots
Infection
Problems from anesthesia
A urinary tract infection is the most common complication, confirmed by urine culture in 4.3–9% of patients. [2]
Stress incontinence — leaking urine when you cough, laugh or jump — is also a common side effect. Your provider may test your bladder before surgery to check for it. [1]
There is a small chance the prolapse can return. [1] Recurrence is more likely if you've had prolapse surgery before. [4] When it does come back, a repeat colpocleisis is the most common fix, with good short-term results. [6]
When should you call your provider after colpocleisis?
Call your provider after colpocleisis if you notice signs of infection or poor healing, including: [1]
A fever
Abdominal pain
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Worsening pain at the incision
Heavy bleeding, or bleeding that won't stop
Conclusion
Colpocleisis is one of the most reliable surgeries for severe pelvic organ prolapse. It takes about an hour, works in nearly every case and asks less of the body than reconstructive repair. Its one big trade-off — the permanent loss of vaginal intercourse — makes careful, honest counseling the most important step before choosing it.
If prolapse is affecting your daily life, talk with a gynecologist or urogynecologist about every option, from pelvic floor exercises and pessaries to reconstructive or closing surgery. Bring this guide to your appointment and ask which approach fits your health, goals and lifestyle.
Want to understand your options first? Read our full guide to pelvic organ prolapse, or explore related guides on uterine prolapse and cystocele (prolapsed bladder). Or browse more women's health guides.
FAQ
Can you have colpocleisis without a hysterectomy?
Yes. A partial (Le Fort) colpocleisis does not require removing the uterus; it leaves two small tunnels so the uterus can drain. [1]
Can you pee normally after colpocleisis?
Yes. Some people have trouble emptying the bladder for a few days and may need a temporary catheter, and stress incontinence is a common side effect. [1]
Can you still have an orgasm after colpocleisis?
Yes. Vaginal intercourse is no longer possible, but clitoral stimulation and orgasm remain possible. [1]
Will my genitals look different after colpocleisis?
No. The vaginal canal and opening become much smaller, but the vulva (external genitals) looks the same. [1]
Can prolapse come back after colpocleisis?
Yes, but it is rare. The risk is higher in people who have had prolapse surgery before, and a repeat colpocleisis is the most common treatment if it returns. [4][6]
Can I still get a Pap smear after colpocleisis?
No. A Pap smear and transvaginal ultrasound are no longer possible, which is why your provider reviews your screening history and cancer risk before surgery. [1]
How soon can I drive after colpocleisis?
Most people feel well enough to walk and drive within a few days to a few weeks. Check with your provider before driving. [1]
Is colpocleisis reversible?
No. Colpocleisis is permanent, and vaginal intercourse is no longer possible afterward. It is best suited for people who are sure they will not want vaginal sex in the future.
How long does colpocleisis surgery take?
The surgery usually takes about an hour. Many people go home the same day.
How long does it take to recover from colpocleisis?
Most people feel back to normal within two to six weeks. Your surgeon will tell you when you can lift, exercise and return to all your usual activities.
Related Reading
Pelvic Organ Prolapse: What It Is, the 4 Types, and How It’s Treated covers the main types of pelvic organ prolapse and treatment options.
Uterine Prolapse: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options explains why the uterus drops and the treatments that can help.
Sacrocolpopexy: A Guide to Treating Pelvic Organ Prolapse describes a mesh-based abdominal surgery that keeps vaginal function.
Colporrhaphy: Types, Procedure, Risks and Recovery Time explains how vaginal wall repair treats bladder or rectal prolapse.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Colpocleisis: What To Expect, Technique & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated February 23, 2026. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23323-colpocleisis
Grzybowska ME, Futyma K, Kusiak A, et al. Colpocleisis as an obliterative surgery for pelvic organ prolapse: is it still a viable option in the twenty-first century? Narrative review. Int Urogynecol J. 2022;33(1):31-46. PMID 34406418. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-021-04907-7
Zacharakis D, Prodromidou A, Kathopoulis N, et al. Colpocleisis with or without hysterectomy. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2025;313:114583. PMID 40706294. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejogrb.2025.114583
Nahshon C, Karmakar D, Abramov Y, et al. Risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse recurrence following colpocleisis: A meta-analysis. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2023;164(3):848-856. PMID 37488940. https://doi.org/10.1002/ijgo.14999
Buchsbaum GM, Lee TG. Vaginal obliterative procedures for pelvic organ prolapse: a systematic review. Obstet Gynecol Surv. 2017;72(3):175-183. PMID 28304415. https://doi.org/10.1097/OGX.0000000000000406
Douglass KM, Yazdany T. The "repeat colpocleisis": a literature review and case report. Int Urogynecol J. 2024;35(8):1571-1576. PMID 38942932. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-024-05852-x
Welch EK, Dengler KL, Wheat JE, et al. Colpocleisis techniques: an open-and-shut case for advanced pelvic organ prolapse. Urology. 2023;176:252. PMID 36965819. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2023.03.011
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation.
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