Pelvic Floor Therapy and Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects a little over 10% of women of childbearing age. While many women struggle with this condition, some may not fully know what endometriosis is, what its symptoms are, or how it can be treated.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is when tissue similar to the uterine lining, the endometrium, grows outside of the uterus. This tissue is called an endometrial implant. It can be found in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and other areas in the pelvis.

During the menstrual cycle, the lining of the uterus normally thickens, breaks down, and then sheds. Endometrial implants behave similarly. However, instead of being able to exit the body through the vaginal canal, they get trapped and cause inflammation, pain, scar tissue (adhesions), and the development of cysts.

The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. It can also cause painful periods, pain with sex, chronic lower back pain, and even fertility struggles.

The exact cause of endometriosis is not known, but it is thought to have genetic, hormonal, and immune system factors. It is typically diagnosed through laparoscopy where a small lighted surgical instrument is inserted through the abdomen to see and possibly remove the endometrial implants. Treatment for endometriosis may include pain management, hormone therapy, and surgery in more severe cases.

How can pelvic floor therapy help?

While endometriosis can seem daunting, there is treatment available. While it cannot treat the underlying cause, pelvic floor therapy can be an effective way to help manage the symptoms and complications that come with endometriosis.

One of the main ways that pelvic floor therapy can help is in dealing with pelvic pain. Often the inflammation and pain that endometrial implants cause make the pelvic floor muscles contract which leads to muscle tension and pain. Pelvic floor therapy is highly effective in helping these muscles to relax which can alleviate pain and resolve any pelvic floor dysfunction.

Endometriosis can have many complications like bowel and bladder dysfunction, pain with sex, and can even result in surgery. Pelvic floor therapy is effective in addressing all of these issues. Not only can a pelvic floor therapist help with overall pelvic floor function, but they can also aid in the recovery process from surgery.

How effective is pelvic floor therapy for endometriosis?

Even though pelvic floor therapy cannot treat the underlying cause of endometriosis, it can manage symptoms and complications. The exact effectiveness varies from person to person depending on the severity of their condition, their personal response to therapy, and their commitment to their plan of care. Pelvic floor therapy is often used alongside pain management, hormonal therapy, and surgery to help treat endometriosis. For many women, it is a highly effective way to return to their normal day-to-day activities.

If you are dealing with pelvic pain, especially if it is impacting your daily life, please look into getting care from a pelvic floor therapist. We would love to help you or help you find the resources you need to get the care you need!