Pelvic Organ Prolapse & Hypermobility: Why It Happens & What You Can Do

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) can be a frustrating and often misunderstood condition—and for those with Generalized Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), prolapse may feel even more unpredictable.

If you’ve been told you have prolapse, experience feelings of heaviness or pressure in your pelvis, or struggle with bladder and bowel dysfunction, hypermobility could be a contributing factor.

This blog will break down:
✔ Why prolapse is more common in people with hypermobility
✔ How your connective tissue impacts pelvic floor function
✔ What you can do to manage and improve symptoms

Let’s dive in!

How Hypermobility Contributes to Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the supporting structures of the pelvic floor become too weak or dysfunctional, causing one or more organs (bladder, uterus, rectum) to shift downward.

For individuals with hypermobility or EDS, this risk is higher because connective tissue is naturally more lax and doesn’t provide as much structural support.

Key Factors Linking Hypermobility & Prolapse:
✔ Weaker pelvic ligaments & fascia → Leads to poor organ support
✔ Reduced collagen quality → Makes tissues more prone to stretching
✔ Increased joint & core instability → Affects posture and intra-abdominal pressure control
✔ Dysautonomia (POTS) → Can impact bladder function and worsen symptoms

Because of these factors, prolapse symptoms may start earlier or progress differently in hypermobile individuals compared to those with normal connective tissue.

Signs & Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic prolapse doesn’t always look the same for everyone, but common signs include:

🔴 Pelvic pressure or heaviness (especially after standing or lifting)
🔴 Feeling of a bulge or something “falling out” of the vagina
🔴 Bladder leaks (stress or urgency incontinence)
🔴 Difficulty fully emptying the bladder or bowels
🔴 Increased symptoms after prolonged activity or exercise

Hypermobile individuals may notice more "fluctuating symptoms"—meaning some days feel better than others depending on activity level, hydration, and fatigue.

What You Can Do to Support Your Pelvic Floor

If you have hypermobility and prolapse, strengthening isn’t just about Kegels. The key is a whole-body, functional approach that improves pelvic support, posture, and movement strategies.

1️⃣ Learn to Manage Pressure & Breathing

2️⃣ Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor & Core Without Over-Tightening

3️⃣ Build Stability Through Functional Movement

4️⃣ Lifestyle Modifications to Reduce Prolapse Symptoms

Ready to Take Control of Your Pelvic Health and Hypermobility?

At Renew Health in East Longmeadow, MA, we specialize in helping individuals with hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) overcome symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder leaks, prolapse, and chronic instability by addressing the root causes. We focus on restoring muscle balance, improving joint stability, and providing expert guidance on movement, breathwork, and long-term strength strategies—so you can move with confidence, feel supported in your body, and regain control of your well-being.

Curious if pelvic floor therapy is right for you? Fill out our contact form to chat with one of our pelvic health specialists!

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📍 Renew Health – East Longmeadow, MA