Can Pelvic Floor Therapy Help with Endometriosis?
Yes! Pelvic floor physical therapy is an important part of a team-approach to managing endometriosis. Pelvic floor PT is one of the first line treatments to manage endometriosis-related pain conditions like painful periods, painful sex, hip pain, back pain, or sciatica; as well as things like bladder urgency/frequency, constipation, and IBS-symptoms. Pelvic floor PT can also be an important part of your recovery if you choose to have surgery.
What will we do in pelvic floor therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy can be extremely helpful for releasing muscle tension and tender points that are causing pain. Some of the techniques we might use are internal or external pelvic floor release work (only with your consent), soft tissue release around your back, hips, pelvis, abdomen, and neck and shoulders (eg. massage, cupping, dry needling), visceral mobilization, and guided exercise to help restore balance in your body. You will also learn about tools that you can use at home.
Our nervous system also plays a huge role in where and how our bodies perceive pain/threat; it is a big driver of why our bodies hold tension in areas like our pelvic floor. Terra Pelvic Health was designed with a calm nervous system in mind - from the moment you walk in until your session is over, the furniture, lighting, and space are all thoughtfully curated to feel restorative, calm, and peaceful. Dr. Emma takes a trauma-informed, consent-forward approach, so you will never feel rushed or pressured. Each session is tailored to what your mind, body, and nervous system need during your session.
Your visits might also include lifestyle modification advice to address bothersome bladder and bowel symptoms or sexual dysfunction.
Why should I do pelvic floor therapy before endometriosis surgery?
Pelvic floor therapy before surgery can help your body prepare for surgery and support an easier recovery. Your therapist can also give you guidance on how to safely return to movement during your early recovery.
Why do I need pelvic floor therapy after endometriosis surgery?
Surgery is intended to remove endometriosis tissue and adhesions, but it does not address muscle tension or nervous system dysregulation that can contribute to persistent symptoms after surgery. In fact, sometimes we actually see more tension/guarding after surgery as your body tries to find a new normal. Pelvic floor therapy will help address tension-holding patterns, muscle tender (trigger) points, and help you feel safe and at home in your body again.
Do I have to have surgery for endometriosis?
No. Excision surgery is currently the gold standard treatment for endometriosis, but depending on your preferences and goals, you may work with your medical team to explore non-surgical options including medication (birth control or hormonal suppression), pelvic floor therapy, and lifestyle interventions. While these things aren’t directly treating endometriosis lesions, they can be helpful for managing symptoms like painful periods or painful sex. Dr. Emma can also help you weigh the pros/cons of different treatment options to make whatever decision is right for you.
