Vaginal Laxity and Prolapse

What is Vaginal Laxity and Prolapse?

Vaginal laxity and prolapse are common. Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues weaken, causing one of more pelvic organs – such as the bladder, uterus or rectum – to sage or bulge into or outside the vagina. It can be exacerbated by hormone changes, for example, menopause and pregnancy. As pelvic floor support lessons so laxity increases and tissues descend. Note that surgery in many cases is avoidable.

+ Are you experiencing any dragging or heaviness down below?

Vaginal laxity refers to a feeling of looseness or reduced tightness in the vaginal canal.

Many women notice changes after childbirth, with aging, or during menopause – when vaginal tissues may stretch or lose elasticity due to factors like lower oestrogen levels and weakened pelvic floor muscles.

+ What are the common signs?

Common signs of these conditions include:

A sensation of dryness or discomfort during intercourse.
Reduced vaginal ‘grip’ – for example, tampons feel looser or there is ‘air trapping’.
Possible mild urinary or bowel leakage.
You may feel a bulge or heaviness in the vaginal area.
Pressure, discomfort, lower back pain, difficulty with urination or bowel movements and pain during sex.

+ What can help?

Oestrogen based vaginal cream.
Vaginal moisturiser – for example, Hydromol, Medihoney, Yes and Sylk. You can speak to your local pharmacist or GP as some are available over the counter whilst others are available on prescription.
Improve pelvic floor technique.
Weight loss.
Avoiding heavy lifting.
Avoiding constipation/straining.
Regular short rests/lying down to ‘reset’ the prolapse.
Ring/Shelf Pessary.

Local Support

SBUHB Community Healthy Bladder and Bowel Service

Lots of helpful information, including explanations of different issues and what you can do to help manage these conditions. They are also there to help if you need extra support.

Tel: 01792 532424

Email: Community Healthy Bladder and Bowel Service

SBUHB Pelvic Health Physiotherapy – Self Referral

PLEASE NOTE: This self-referral form is for people experiencing pelvic health concerns such as Bladder or Bowel symptoms, Pelvic organ prolapse, Pelvic pain, or pregnancy-related pain.
This service supports anyone whose pelvic anatomy is typically associated with female anatomy at birth.

Visit SBUHB Pelvic Health Physiotherapy – Self Referral

SBUHB – Women’s Health Physiotherapy Information Sessions

Join us for a free, informative session on pelvic health led by NHS physiotherapists. Held in venues across Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot.

This session will explore key pelvic health issues that can affect women throughout different stages of life—from adolescence to post-menopause. Whether you’re currently experiencing symptoms or simply want to learn more, our expert physiotherapists will guide you through:

Common pelvic health concerns
Self-management strategies
Where you get more information or further help

This is a great opportunity to ask questions, gain confidence, and take proactive steps toward improving your pelvic health.

Help and Resources

NHS – Pelvic Organ Prolapse

For more information on Pelvic Organ Prolapse visit the NHS UK website. You will find information on symptoms and treatment as well as guidance on what to expect when you book an appointment with your GP.

Visit NHS UK