If I turn OFF my VPN, upload speed very slow

I’m having a lot of problem with video-conferencing with intermittent poor sound and picture at both ends of the call, and occasional “internet unstable” messages. I’ve just checked my internet speeds, and these are fine on my mobile phone - 63 and 18, but on my laptop i’m getting nearer o.3 for upload! I’ve just discovered that if I turn on my VPN, then the upload speed returns to about 18. Does this mean I must either always use VPN or uninstall it? This happens whether using wireless or wired LAN