(HealthDayNews) -- A cystocele occurs when the wall between a woman's bladder and vagina weakens and lets the bladder droop into the vagina, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

The uncomfortable condition may cause urine leakage and incomplete emptying of the bladder. A cystocele may result from muscle straining while giving birth, heavy lifting, or repeated straining during bowel movements.

The hormone estrogen helps keep the muscles around the vagina strong. But when women go through menopause, their bodies stop making estrogen, so the muscles around the vagina and bladder may grow weaker.

Treatment options range from none for a mild cystocele to surgery for a serious case.