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The Forbury Clinic

Colposuspension Newcastle

Colposuspension is a well-established operation for stress urinary incontinence in women. By supporting the neck of the bladder, it restores control and is a proven and durable option, particularly valued as a non-mesh surgical choice.

  • For stress incontinence
  • Long track record
  • Consultant-performed
    Established surgical treatment
    A non-mesh option
    Durable long-term results
    For female stress incontinence

What is colposuspension?

Colposuspension is an operation used to treat stress urinary incontinence, which is leakage of urine when you cough, laugh, exercise or lift.

Stress incontinence happens when the support around the bladder neck and urethra weakens. The bladder neck is the area where the bladder joins the urethra. When support is reduced, pressure from everyday activities can cause leakage.

Colposuspension works by lifting and supporting the tissues around the bladder neck and upper urethra. This restores the natural support that helps keep you dry.

It is one of the longest-established operations for stress incontinence and has a strong record of durable results. Because it uses your own tissues and stitches rather than synthetic mesh, it is often chosen as a mesh-free surgical option.

The procedure can be performed as open surgery or by keyhole surgery in suitable cases. Your consultant will explain which approach is appropriate for you.

How it works

What it involves

Colposuspension restores support to the bladder neck to prevent leakage during physical activity.

Lifts and supports the bladder neck

Stitches are placed in the supportive tissues beside the bladder neck and attached to strong ligaments or tissues in the pelvis.

Restores natural support

By improving the position and stability of the bladder neck, the urethra stays closed more effectively when pressure increases.

Designed for long-term control

The aim is durable improvement in stress incontinence symptoms.

Who colposuspension may suit

Colposuspension may be suitable for women who:

  • Have stress urinary incontinence confirmed on assessment
  • Have not had enough improvement from pelvic floor rehabilitation
  • Prefer a surgical option that does not use mesh
  • Are assessed as suitable following specialist evaluation

Assessment may include examination and sometimes urodynamic testing to confirm the type of incontinence.

What to expect

  1. Assessment
    Your consultant will confirm that stress incontinence is the main cause of leakage. Tests may be performed to guide the decision and ensure the right operation is chosen.
  2. The operation
    Colposuspension is carried out under general anaesthetic. The bladder neck is supported using stitches placed in nearby strong tissues. It may be performed through a small abdominal incision or using keyhole techniques depending on your circumstances.
  3. Recovery

    A short hospital stay is usual. You will be given clear guidance on wound care and activity. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are avoided for several weeks while healing takes place. Follow-up appointments monitor recovery and symptom improvement.

Why choose The Forbury Clinic for colposuspension in Newcastle?

Why The Forbury Clinic
1

A proven operation

Colposuspension is one of the most established surgical treatments for female stress incontinence with a long record of durable results.

2

A non-mesh choice

The operation uses your own tissues rather than synthetic mesh, which is an important consideration for many women.

3

Consultant-led decision making

Surgery is recommended only after careful assessment confirms it is the most appropriate option.

4

Focus on long-term control

The aim is to restore confidence and reduce leakage in daily life.

Frequently asked questions

Is colposuspension a mesh operation?

No. It supports the bladder neck using stitches placed in your own tissues without synthetic mesh.

How does it compare with a sling?

Both treat stress incontinence. Sling procedures can involve a shorter recovery. Colposuspension avoids mesh and has a long track record of use. Your consultant will help you compare the benefits and considerations of each.

Will I need a general anaesthetic?

Yes. Colposuspension is performed under general anaesthetic. The choice between open or keyhole surgery depends on individual factors.

How long is recovery?

A short hospital stay is usual. Most women gradually return to normal activities over several weeks while avoiding heavy lifting during healing.

Reviewed by Mr Matthew B.K. Shaw
Mr Shaw qualified from Oriel College, University of Oxford in 1997 before developing an internationally recognised Urology practice in the North East of England.
Last reviewed: 21 Jul 2026.

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Treatment suitability is determined following consultation with a specialist. Individual results and recommendations vary.
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