What Does Vaginal Prolapse Feel Like?

Written By Megan Rome

You may be wondering what a vaginal prolapse feels like— and if you may have one.

Vaginal prolapse is one of the most common pelvic floor concerns women experience, yet so many aren’t sure what it actually feels like. At Rome Physical Therapy, our goal is to give you clear, real-life explanations so you can better understand your body and get the right support.

Common Symptoms of Vaginal Prolapse

Every woman feels prolapse slightly differently, but the most common sensations include:

1. A Feeling of Pressure or Heaviness

Many women describe it as a “tampon falling out” sensation, pelvic heaviness, or a deep pressure in the vagina—especially after standing, walking, or lifting.

2. Bulging or Dragging Sensation

You may feel a bulge inside the vagina or see/feel tissue closer to the opening. Some women notice a “dragging” or stretching feeling in the pelvis.

3. Pelvic or Low Back Discomfort

Because the prolapse changes how the core and pelvic floor support the organs, it can lead to dull aches in the pelvis, lower abdomen, or low back. It also can pull on the ligaments that attached to the bottom part of your spine creating low back pain.

4. Trouble Emptying the Bladder or Bowels

You might feel like you have to strain or shift positions to fully pee or poop. This happens because the organs aren’t supported in their optimal positions and they can be pressing on one another.

5. Increased Symptoms at the End of the Day

Heaviness and pressure often worsen after long periods of activity, lifting kids, or high-intensity exercise. Also, your pelvic floor is probably exhausted by the end of day leading to more symptoms.

Why Prolapse Happens

Vaginal prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and the surrounding connective tissues are no longer providing optimal support for the bladder, uterus, or rectum. This can result from:

  • Pregnancy and childbirth

  • Chronic constipation or straining

  • High-impact exercise

  • Hormonal changes

  • Poor pressure management or breathing mechanics

  • Pelvic floor muscle imbalance (weakness OR overactivity)

Why Kegels Alone Don’t Fix Prolapse

It’s common to be told “just do Kegels,” but prolapse recovery is much more complex.

You may need strengthening, but also:

  • Better coordination

  • Improved diaphragmatic breathing

  • Pressure management

  • Pelvic alignment

  • Core engagement and sequencing

  • Relaxation strategies if the pelvic floor is too tight

  • Postural correction

If you’re doing Kegels without understanding why the prolapse is happening in your body, they often don’t help—and can sometimes make symptoms worse. A tailored plan is key.

Pelvic Floor PT Can Help

At Rome Physical Therapy, we assess every layer of the pelvic floor—front and back, superficial and deep—then connect it to the core, pelvis, posture, and functional movement so we can address the root cause of your prolapse symptoms.

This is how we help you feel supported, confident, and capable again. Want to learn more? Fill out a contact form here to speak with someone from our team!

Serving the Charleston Area

Rome Physical Therapy proudly serves Charleston and its surrounding areas, including Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and West Ashley.

Megan Rome
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