Managing Pelvic Pain During Your Menstrual Cycle: A Comprehensive Pelvic Guide
On Your Period? Yes, You Can Still Go To Pelvic PT On Your Menstrual Cycle
Dealing with pelvic pain during your menstrual cycle can be challenging. However, Pelvic Physical Therapy (Pelvic PT) can be a valuable ally in managing this discomfort. This blog post aims to provide you with practical advice, exercises, and tips to help you navigate Pelvic PT while on your period. By understanding how to alleviate pain and optimize your therapy sessions, you can maintain your pelvic health even during menstruation.
Understanding Pelvic Floor Pain During Menstrual Cycles
Pelvic floor pain during periods is a common issue many women face. This pain can stem from various factors, including hormonal changes, muscle tension, and underlying conditions like endometriosis. Recognizing the symptoms and causes of pelvic floor pain is the first step in managing it effectively.
Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Pain
Cramping: Intense, throbbing pain in the pelvic area.
Aching: Persistent discomfort in the lower abdomen and pelvis.
Pressure: A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region.
Burning Sensation: A sharp, burning pain that may radiate to the thighs.
Rectal spams: Increased pain in the rectum that can come on suddenly and randomly.
Causes of Pelvic Floor Pain During Your Period
Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes in hormone levels during your menstrual cycle can affect muscle tension and pain sensitivity.
Muscle Tension: Tight pelvic floor muscles can exacerbate menstrual cramps.
Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside it, causing severe pain.
Tips for Managing Pelvic Floor Pain During Periods
1. Lie on Your Back and Elevate Your Legs
Lie on your back with your feet against the wall. This position helps decrease pressure and improve blood flow.
2. Breathing exercises
Diaphragmatic breathing exercises can help to reduce tension in the pelvic floor muscles that can be contributing to pelvic pain.
3. Stretching
Gentle yoga stretches combined with breathing can help to reduce tightness and spasms.
Effective Stretches for Pelvic Floor Pain Relief
Cat-Cow Pose
Get on All Fours: Keep your hands shoulder-width apart and your knees directly below your hips.
Inhale: Curve your lower back, bring your head up, and tilt your pelvis.
Exhale: Round your spine and bring your head and pelvis down. Repeat the stretch 5-10 times each.
Child’s Pose
Sit Back on Your Heels: Touch your big toes together and spread your knees wider than your hips.
Stretch Forward: Rock your hips backward onto your heels and stretch your arms forward. Rest your forehead on the floor.
Hold the Pose: Maintain this position for 5-10 breaths.
Top 10 Tips for Managing Pelvic PT During Your Menstrual Cycle
Communicate with Your Therapist: Let your Pelvic PT know when you’re on your period so they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Consider TENs unit: Consider using a TENs unit, an electrical stimulation unit, to help with pain management before or after your sessions.
Use Heat Therapy: Apply a warm heating pack to your pelvis or abdomen before your session to relax the muscles.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help reduce bloating and muscle cramps.
Practice Deep Breathing: Diaphragmatic breathing can help relax your pelvic floor muscles and reduce pain.
Incorporate Gentle Stretches: Perform gentle stretches before and after your Pelvic PT session to ease muscle tension.
Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Take pain relievers like ibuprofen before your session to manage discomfort.
Schedule Wisely: If possible, schedule your Pelvic PT sessions on lighter flow days.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels and communicate any discomfort to your therapist.
Follow Post-Session Care: Follow any aftercare instructions provided by your therapist to maximize the benefits of your session.
Pelvic PT for Postpartum Menstrual Cycles
After giving birth, your body undergoes significant changes, and your menstrual cycle might be different.
Delayed Cycle: After giving birth, you may not get your period for 45-60 days, or longer if you’re breastfeeding.
Heavy Flow: Your first postpartum period may be heavier than previously.
Period Products and Pelvic Health
Choosing the right period products can impact your pelvic health. Here’s a quick guide to different options:
Tampons & Pads
Choose organic, chemical-free products to avoid irritation. Many brands are now offering 100% cotton options.
Menstural Discs
Menstrual discs are another alternative. They a flexible disc shaped product that is positioned behind your pubic bone. Brands that offer this type of menstural production include Flex or Saalt.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are another great alternative to tampons. They can hold more fluid than a tampon or a pad. Popular brands that carry menstrual cups include Diva Cup or Cora.
Extreme Pelvic Floor Pain and When to Seek Help
Pelvic floor pain during periods is not normal if it severely impacts your daily activities. If you suspect you have a condition like endometriosis, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
How Pelvic PT Can Help with Painful Periods
Pelvic PT can be highly effective in managing painful periods by:
Assessing Muscle Tension: Determining if your pelvic floor muscles are too tense or weak.
Providing Pain Relief Techniques: Offering exercises and stretches to alleviate pain.
Conclusion
Pelvic PT can play a crucial role in managing pelvic floor pain during your menstrual cycle. By incorporating the tips and exercises mentioned above, you can alleviate discomfort and improve your pelvic health. If you’re experiencing severe pain, consult a pelvic floor physical therapist for personalized treatment.
Make the First Step
Don’t let pelvic floor pain control your life. Schedule a consultation with a board-certified Pelvic Physical Therapist today to start your journey toward pain-free periods and improved pelvic health. Call Chicago Pelvic to book a call or learn more about our specialized services.
FAQs
Can I do Pelvic PT while on my period?
Yes, you can continue Pelvic PT during your period. Inform your therapist so they can adjust the treatment accordingly. There is still plenty you and your therapist can work on outside of the pelvic floor that can be just ast beneficial.
What exercises help with menstrual cramps?
Gentle stretches like Cat-Cow Pose and Child’s Pose can help relieve menstrual cramps.
How can I manage severe pelvic floor pain during periods?
Consult a healthcare professional to rule out conditions like endometriosis. Pelvic PT can provide effective pain relief techniques.
Written by:
Dr. Jana Richardson, PT, DPT, WCS, PRPC, CIDN
Dual Board Certified Pelvic Floor Therapist and Owner of Chicago Pelvic Health
Dr. Jana Richardson is a highly accomplished pelvic floor therapist with dual board certifications and extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor dysfunctions. As the owner of Chicago Pelvic Health, Dr. Richardson is dedicated to providing personalized and effective care for her patients. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and specialized certifications in Women’s Health and Pelvic Rehabilitation, Dr. Richardson is a leading expert in her field. She is also certified in Integrative Dry Needling, further enhancing her ability to offer comprehensive treatment plans. Dr. Richardson’s commitment to patient-centered care and her passion for helping individuals achieve optimal pelvic health make her an invaluable asset to the community.
