Self-Reported Vaginal Laxity-Prevalence, Impact, and Associated Symptoms in Women Attending a Urogynecology Clinic

Abstract

Introduction: Vaginal laxity is increasingly recognized as an important condition, although little is known regarding its prevalence and associated symptoms.

Aim: To report the prevalence of self-reported vaginal laxity in women attending a urogynecology clinic and investigate its association with pelvic floor symptoms and female sexual dysfunction.

Method: Data were analyzed from 2,621 women who completed the electronic Personal Assessment Questionnaire-Pelvic Floor (ePAQ-PF).

Main outcome measure: Response data from ePAQ-PF questionairre.

Results: Vaginal laxity was self-reported by 38% of women and significantly associated with parity, symptoms of prolapse, stress urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, reduced vaginal sensation during intercourse, and worse general sex life (P < .0005).

Clinical implications: Clinicians should be aware that vaginal laxity is prevalent and has an associated influence and impact on sexual function.

Strength & limitations: The main strength of this study is the analysis of prospectively collected data from a large cohort of women using a validated questionnaire. The main limitation is lack of objective data to measure pelvic organ prolapse.

Conclusion: Vaginal laxity is a highly prevalent condition that impacts significantly on a woman's sexual health and quality of life. Campbell P, Krychman M, Gray T, et al. Self-reported vaginal laxity-Prevalence, impact, and associated symptoms in women attending a urogynecology clinic. J Sex Med 2018;15:1515-1517.

Keywords: Female Sexual Dysfunction; Overactive Bladder; Prolapse; Stress Urinary Incontinence; Vaginal Laxity; Vaginal Looseness.