The Link Between Menopause and Pelvic Floor Problems—And How to Find Support

When you're in your mid-40s or older, your body starts sending new signals. Maybe it's a sense of heaviness in your pelvis, a pressure that wasn't there before, or an occasional bulge you feel when you're standing or walking. You might chalk it up to aging, hormones, or simply stress.

But what if it’s something more?

Many women first discover pelvic organ prolapse (POP) during perimenopause or menopause—not because it's new, but because hormonal changes can finally make subtle pelvic floor issues harder to ignore.

Let’s talk about why that is—and what support options you actually have.

Why Menopause Can Trigger Pelvic Floor Symptoms

During perimenopause and menopause, estrogen levels naturally decline. While this hormonal shift is a normal part of aging, it can have unexpected effects—especially on the pelvic floor.

Estrogen helps maintain the strength and elasticity of your pelvic tissues. When it drops, the muscles and ligaments that support your bladder, uterus, and rectum may weaken, making pelvic organ prolapse more likely—or more noticeable.

Common symptoms that could be related to prolapse:

• A sense of vaginal heaviness or fullness
• A bulging sensation in the pelvic or vaginal area
• Pressure that worsens throughout the day
• Discomfort during sex
• Difficulty inserting tampons
• Trouble fully emptying the bladder or bowels

You don’t have to check all these boxes. Even one or two might point to something worth investigating.

But What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more pelvic organs slip downward due to weakened support structures. It’s surprisingly common—affecting nearly 1 in 2 women over age 50—but still rarely talked about.

There are different types, depending on which organ is involved:

• Cystocele (bladder prolapse)
• Rectocele (rectal prolapse)
• Uterine prolapse
• Vaginal vault prolapse (after hysterectomy)

And yes, prolapse can happen even if you’ve never had kids.

“Is This Just What Happens With Age?”

Short answer: no. Aging may increase your risk, but pelvic floor issues aren’t something you have to just live with. Many women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond regain confidence, comfort, and control with the right tools and support.

You’re Not Alone—And You’re Not Broken

Most women never hear about pelvic organ prolapse until they feel it. That moment of realization can be scary—especially when you start Googling symptoms and get overwhelmed with unfamiliar terminology, surgical options, or horror stories in online forums.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to figure this out alone.

Where to Start if You're Not Yet Diagnosed

• Talk to your healthcare provider. A gynecologist or urogynecologist can assess your pelvic floor and refer you to a specialist if needed.
• Try pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT). Even without a formal diagnosis, a PFPT can help you understand what’s happening in your body and create a personalized recovery plan. If you’re visiting a pelvic floor physical therapist for the first time, we’ve got 5 questions you can ask to make sure you’re getting the most out of your appointment.
• Explore gentle, non-invasive support tools. This is where pelvic floor support underwear comes in.

What Is Pelvic Floor Support Underwear?

Think of it like a sports bra—but for your pelvic floor. These garments:

• Are specifically designed to gently lift and support the pelvic area
• Reduce the sensation of heaviness or bulging
• Help you feel more stable and confident during daily activities
• Can be worn under everyday clothes without anyone noticing

Many women use prolapse support underwear while waiting for a diagnosis, recovering from childbirth, managing symptoms nonsurgically, or simply to feel more secure.

What Help Looks Like—In Real Life

You might be:

• Googling “feeling of pressure in vagina menopause”
• Struggling to stand for long periods
• Feeling frustrated by doctors brushing off your concerns
• Wondering if this is just your “new normal”

You're not alone. We've helped support many women in this exact season of life—and what we hear over and over is this:

“I wish someone had told me this was even a thing.”

You Deserve Answers—And Relief

If you're just starting this journey, here’s what we recommend:

1. Track your symptoms. Noticing patterns helps your provider understand what’s going on.
2. Schedule an evaluation. Early diagnosis opens up more options—before things get worse. Your provider can also help guide you toward treatment options that are right for you.
3. Try a supportive garment. Even if you're still waiting for clarity, it can bring daily comfort.
4. Know that treatment isn't always surgery. Many women manage POP effectively without it.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor problems during menopause are common—but not inevitable. If you're feeling confused, concerned, or just “off,” trust that voice inside you. There’s support available—and you deserve to feel strong, confident, and in control of your body.

**Medical Disclaimer: This post is intended to provide information and resources only. This post or any of the information contained within should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Always seek the guidance of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your healthcare, conditions, and recommended treatment.