What does vaginal bulge feel like with cystocele?

A cystocele happens when the front wall of the vagina weakens and the bladder presses into it. You may feel heaviness, dragging, pressure, or a soft lump at the vaginal opening. The sensation can become more noticeable after standing, walking, coughing, lifting, or straining, and may ease when you lie down.

Bladder symptoms can occur too. These include needing to urinate often, leaking with a cough or sneeze, a weak stream, or a feeling that the bladder has not emptied fully. Vaginal bulge has other possible causes, so an examination is needed to identify the source.

Arrange a pelvic-floor or gynaecology assessment if the bulge is new, persistent, or interfering with exercise, sex, work, or bowel and bladder function. Note when it appears, what makes it worse, and whether you need to press on the bulge to empty your bladder or bowel.

Treatment may include pelvic-floor exercises, managing constipation, reducing straining, a vaginal support device, or surgery when symptoms are significant. A clinician can match the choice to your symptoms and preferences.

Seek prompt care if you cannot pass urine, have severe pelvic pain, or the bulge becomes very swollen or suddenly more painful. Contact a clinician for bleeding, sores, unusual discharge, or repeated urinary infections alongside the bulge.

Ask: Is the bulge caused by a cystocele or another type of prolapse? How advanced is it? Could pelvic-floor therapy or a support device help? What can I do about incomplete emptying? Which changes should be reviewed urgently?