Understanding women’s health and pelvic pain
Pelvic pain is a common issue for many women and can be related to muscles, joints, or the way the body moves, just like back or knee pain. This is called musculoskeletal pelvic pain. It can affect how you move, sit, walk, or even go to the toilet, and can sometimes feel worrying or frustrating.
The good news is that many types of pelvic pain can be managed with the right information, support, and gentle movement.
There is a specialist pelvic health Physiotherapy service run by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. For more details visit their website: Pelvic Health Physiotherapy – Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
What is musculoskeletal pelvic pain?
This type of pain comes from the muscles, ligaments, joints, or nerves around your pelvis, which is the area between your hips and below your stomach.
You might feel:
- a dull ache or heaviness
- pain in your lower back, hips, or groin
- discomfort when sitting, walking, or during sex
- pressure or tightness in your pelvic area
What can cause or affect pelvic pain?
Musculoskeletal pelvic pain can be affected by many things, including:
Pregnancy and childbirth
Muscles and joints stretch and shift during pregnancy.
After birth, some muscles may remain weak or tight, especially the pelvic floor.
Hormonal changes
Changes during periods, perimenopause, or menopause can affect how tissues feel and behave.
Lower hormone levels can cause dryness and make tissues more sensitive.
Muscle tension
The pelvic floor muscles may become overactive or tight, just like a stiff neck or tense shoulders.
Stress and anxiety can make this worse.
Weak core or pelvic floor muscles
These muscles help support your bladder, bowel, and uterus.
Weakness can lead to discomfort, pressure, or a “dragging” feeling.
Past surgeries or injuries
Scars, even from things like C-sections or abdominal surgeries, can affect how muscles move and function.
Tips for managing pelvic pain
Learn about your body
Understanding that your pain may come from tense or weak muscles (not always from organs or something serious) can be reassuring.
Don’t ignore it, but don’t fear it
Pain is real, but movement is usually safe and helpful. Avoiding movement for too long can make pain worse over time.
Move gently and regularly
Try walking, stretching, or gentle yoga. Moving helps release tension and supports healing.
Practice breathing and relaxation
Stress makes muscles tighten—including in the pelvic floor. Deep belly breathing helps relax the area.
Try warm baths or heat packs
Heat can ease muscle tightness and improve blood flow.
Strengthen (or relax) your pelvic floor
Some people need to strengthen these muscles. Others need to learn to relax them. A specialist physiotherapist can help you figure out what you need
