Beyond the Obvious: 7 Surprising Signs of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Every Woman Should Know

As women, we often prioritize various aspects of our health, but one area that may go unnoticed is our pelvic floor. 

The pelvic floor muscles play a vital role in supporting our pelvic organs and maintaining their proper function. 

While common signs of pelvic floor dysfunction are widely recognized, there are several unusual indicators that shouldn’t be overlooked. 

It’s important to know the signs and take action as needed. Let’s explore these lesser-known signs and why it’s essential to care for our pelvic floor health.

1. Chronic Constipation: A Warning Sign

Do you often struggle with chronic constipation? Difficulty passing stools can be an indication of pelvic floor dysfunction. When the pelvic floor muscles are weak or imbalanced, they may inhibit proper bowel movements, resulting in persistent constipation. 

Incorporating dietary fiber, hydration, and seeking professional guidance can help alleviate this issue and support a healthy pelvic floor. 

2. Painful Intercourse: Listen to Your Body

Experiencing pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, known as dyspareunia, can be a subtle yet significant sign of pelvic floor dysfunction. Tense or imbalanced pelvic floor muscles can cause pain or trigger points that hinder pleasurable and pain-free intimacy. 

Discussing this concern with a healthcare professional, such as a pelvic floor physical therapist, or an experienced pelvic floor expert, can help identify the underlying causes and guide you towards effective solutions.

3. Tailbone or Lower Back Pain: Unraveling the Connection

Have you been experiencing persistent pain in your tailbone or lower back? 

It may surprise you to learn that pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to discomfort in these areas. 

As the pelvic floor muscles connect to the tailbone and lower back, imbalances or dysfunction in these muscles can manifest as chronic pain. Targeted exercises can help alleviate these symptoms and restore comfort.

4. Hip Pain or Instability: Tracing the Source

Pelvic floor dysfunction can also be associated with hip pain or instability. Since the pelvic floor muscles work in harmony with the hip muscles, any imbalance or dysfunction may lead to pain or instability in the hip joints. 

Nurturing your pelvic floor health through proper exercises and professional guidance can promote better hip function and alleviate discomfort.

5. Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Protecting Your Pelvic Organs

Another potential consequence of pelvic floor dysfunction is pelvic organ prolapse. This occurs when the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, descend or bulge into the vaginal canal.

While it is more commonly known and a rather obvious sign of pelvic floor issues, it is worth mentioning as a sign of pelvic floor dysfunction so you can recognize the signs BEFORE it starts. For example, women may experience a sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region. 

That symptom, especially combined with any of these other signs would be a good reason to suspect your pelvic floor needs some attention. 

6. Frequent Urination or Urgency: Listen to Your Bladder

Frequent urination or a sudden urge to urinate, even when your bladder isn’t full, can be a sign of pelvic floor dysfunction. The pelvic floor muscles contribute to bladder control, and any dysfunction can disrupt normal urinary patterns. 

If you experience these symptoms and you can rule out infection, you may wish to try some targeted, specialized exercises for your pelvic floor. 

7. Pelvic Girdle Pain: Addressing Persistent Discomfort

Pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to pelvic girdle pain, which encompasses pain in the pelvic area, hips, and lower abdomen. 

This pain can be persistent and impact daily activities, such as walking or sitting comfortably. 

Recognizing this unusual sign allows you to seek appropriate care, such as working with a pelvic floor therapist who can provide exercises, stretches, and other interventions to alleviate pelvic girdle pain.

By being aware of both common and unusual signs of pelvic floor dysfunction, you can take proactive steps to care for their pelvic floor health. 

Remember, your pelvic floor health matters, so take care of it with the attention it deserves.

Ready to experience a pelvic floor transformation? 

Join the F-REEee Complete Pelvic Floor Reset Workshop now!