Pelvic pressure is a common concern, and many people immediately worry about pelvic organ prolapse POP, but the truth is: 

Pelvic pressure does not always mean you have a prolapse.

In many cases, the real issue is pelvic floor muscle tightness, a condition that often mimics prolapse symptoms and creates a heavy, uncomfortable sensation in the pelvis.

Understanding the difference between pelvic pressure, pelvic floor dysfunction, and true prolapse symptoms can help you find the right treatment faster and avoid unnecessary medical testing.

Pelvic Pressure vs. Prolapse: What’s Really Going On?

Pelvic floor muscle tightness—also called hypertonic pelvic floor—is one of the most overlooked causes of pelvic pressure.

These tight muscles can create:

• A heavy or dragging sensation

• Pelvic pressure when standing or walking

• Discomfort with daily activities

• Tenderness when touched internally

These symptoms are commonly mistaken for pelvic organ prolapse, even though prolapse typically does not cause pain.

How to Check for Prolapse at Home

Here are two simple ways to give yourself a better understanding of what you’re feeling:

1. Use a Mirror to Examine the Pelvic Area:

With a handheld mirror, take a gentle look at the vaginal opening.

You may notice:

• A small ball-like bulge → can indicate bladder prolapse (cystocele)

• A nose-tip-shaped bulge → may indicate uterine prolapse

If you don’t see any descent, your symptoms may be related to pelvic floor muscle tension, not prolapse.

2. Notice If You Feel Pelvic Pain:

Pain is not a common prolapse symptom.

If you feel:

• Soreness

• Sharp pain

• Tenderness when applying pressure internally

these signs point more toward pelvic floor muscle tightness rather than a prolapse.

Just like pressing on a tight shoulder or neck muscle, pressing on a tight pelvic floor muscle can feel tender.

Why Pelvic Floor Muscle Tightness Is Often Missed

Many people feel uncomfortable examining their pelvic area, which leads to confusion, fear, and misdiagnosis.

This is where pelvic floor therapy makes an enormous difference.

At Advanced Pelvic Solutions, we help clients:

• Understand their pelvic anatomy

• Learn how to safely self-assess pelvic floor symptoms

• Identify whether their pelvic pressure is muscle-related or structural

• Avoid unnecessary ultrasounds, MRIs, X-rays, and tests that often show normal results

• Get fast relief from pelvic floor tension and pelvic pain

You Don’t Have to Guess

Get Clarity and Relief

If you’re experiencing pelvic pressure, pelvic pain, or fear of prolapse, a pelvic floor therapist can give you clarity, reassurance, and effective treatment.

 Book your appointment with Advanced Pelvic Solutions, by calling 407-274-1233 for your free consultation, or visit us in 2500 W. Lake Mary Blvd. Unit 101, Lake Mary, FL. 32746, to learn how to test your pelvic floor muscles, relieve your pelvic pressure, and understand your body with confidence.