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

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.