What’s Causing Your Pelvic Pain? Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Pelvic pain is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects people of all ages. Whether it’s a persistent ache, sharp pain, or discomfort that comes and goes, pelvic pain can interfere with daily activities, intimacy, and overall quality of life. Many people struggle to find effective solutions because the root causes of pelvic pain vary widely, from musculoskeletal issues to nerve dysfunction and organ-related conditions. In this blog, we’ll break down the causes, symptoms, and how pelvic floor physiotherapy can provide lasting relief.
What Is Pelvic Pain?
Pelvic pain is any discomfort felt in the lower abdominal or pelvic region, including the perineum, buttocks, and lower back. It can be:
Acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting more than three months)
Localized (felt in one specific area) or widespread
Constant or intermittent (comes and goes)
Associated with activities like sitting, standing, urinating, or sexual intercourse
Common Causes of Pelvic Pain
There are many possible causes of pelvic pain, and the underlying issue can vary from person to person. Some conditions are related to muscle tension or dysfunction, while others stem from nerve irritation, gynecological conditions, or digestive disorders. While this is not an exhaustive list, below are some of the most common causes of pelvic pain that we see in our clinic.
1. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pelvic floor muscles can become too tight (hypertonic) or too weak (hypotonic), leading to pain and dysfunction. Symptoms include:
✔️ Pain while sitting, standing, or engaging in physical activity
✔️ Discomfort during or after sex
✔️ Difficulty with urination or bowel movements
2. Pudendal Neuralgia
Pudendal Neuralgia occurs when the pudendal nerve, which runs through the pelvic floor, becomes irritated or compressed, leading to symptoms like:
✔️ Burning, stabbing, or tingling pain in the perineal or genital area
✔️ Numbness or hypersensitivity in the pelvis
✔️ Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting
3. Vaginismus
Vaginismus is a condition where the pelvic floor muscles involuntarily tighten during attempted vaginal penetration, causing pain or discomfort. It can make sexual intercourse, tampon use, and gynecological exams painful or impossible. Symptoms include:
✔️ Involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor
✔️ Burning or stinging pain with penetration
✔️ Fear or anxiety associated with vaginal insertion
4. Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea) & Painful Initial Cycles
Many women experience severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), especially during their early menstrual cycles. While mild cramping is common, debilitating period pain is not normal and could be a sign of underlying issues such as endometriosis or hormonal imbalances. Symptoms include:
✔️ Severe cramping that interferes with daily activities
✔️ Lower abdominal or pelvic pain before and during menstruation
✔️ Pain radiating to the lower back or thighs
✔️ Nausea, vomiting, or dizziness associated with period pain
5. Endometriosis & Gynecological Conditions
For women, pelvic pain can be linked to endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, or menstrual disorders. Symptoms may include:
✔️ Severe menstrual cramps that don’t improve with painkillers
✔️ Pain during or after sex (dyspareunia)
✔️ Bloating and digestive discomfort
6. Postpartum Pelvic Pain
Pregnancy and childbirth can cause pelvic floor dysfunction, perineal trauma, or tailbone pain. Common postpartum symptoms include:
✔️ A feeling of heaviness in the pelvis
✔️ Pain with movement, lifting, or sitting
✔️ Urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse
7. Interstitial Cystitis (Painful Bladder Syndrome)
Chronic bladder irritation can cause pelvic pain that worsens when the bladder is full. Symptoms include:
✔️ Urinary urgency and frequency
✔️ Pain relief after urination
✔️ Pressure in the lower abdomen
8. Digestive Disorders (IBS, Constipation, Bloating)
Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic constipation, and bloating can put extra pressure on the pelvic floor, leading to pain and tightness. Symptoms may include:
✔️ Abdominal cramping and gas pain
✔️ Straining during bowel movements
✔️ Rectal pain or pressure
How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help with Pelvic Pain
As pelvic pain specialists, we take a holistic and evidence-based approach to treatment. Our goal is to identify the root cause of your pain and develop a customized treatment plan.
1. Comprehensive Assessment
We start with an in-depth evaluation, including:
✔️ A detailed history of your symptoms
✔️ Pelvic floor muscle assessment
✔️ Posture, mobility, and movement analysis
2. Hands-On Manual Therapy
We use gentle hands-on techniques to release tension, improve mobility, and relieve pain. Techniques may include:
✔️ Myofascial release
✔️ Trigger point therapy
✔️ Nerve mobilization
3. Biofeedback Therapy
We offer biofeedback training to help patients regain control of their pelvic floor muscles. This technology helps you learn how to properly activate and relax the muscles to reduce pain and improve function.
4. Exercise & Movement Therapy
We prescribe tailored exercises to:
✔️ Strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles
✔️ Relax overactive or tense muscles
✔️ Improve posture and core stability
5. Education & Lifestyle Modifications
Education is a crucial part of recovery. We provide guidance on:
✔️ Proper sitting and movement techniques
✔️ Bladder and bowel habits for pain relief
✔️ Stress management strategies
When to Seek Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy for Pelvic Pain
If you experience persistent pelvic pain that affects your daily activities, intimacy, or quality of life, it’s time to seek help. Many people suffer in silence, assuming their pain is “normal” or untreatable—but pelvic floor physiotherapy can make a significant difference.
Why Choose OVA in Burnaby for Pelvic Pain Treatment?
If you're experiencing pelvic pain, whether it’s acute, chronic, or a complex case, OVA Women’s Health Physio in Burnaby is the best place to seek expert care. We are one of the leading pelvic floor physiotherapy clinics in British Columbia, specializing in treating all forms of pelvic pain with an evidence-based and patient-centred approach.
At OVA, pelvic pain is not just one of the conditions we treat; it is our specialty. We have helped countless patients suffering from acute and chronic pelvic pain, from pudendal neuralgia to postpartum pelvic dysfunction, interstitial cystitis, endometriosis-related pain, and musculoskeletal pelvic conditions. Because of our extensive experience, we have encountered virtually every type of pelvic pain case, including the most complex and challenging conditions.
Pelvic pain can be frustrating, exhausting, and life-altering, but you don’t have to live with it. We understand how debilitating pelvic pain can be, and we are committed to helping you recover and get back to living pain-free.
Ready to Begin?
Don’t wait. The sooner we start, the sooner you can feel relief. Space is limited due to high demand, but if you are ready to take the first step toward recovery, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pelvic Pain
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Chronic pelvic pain can result from several factors, including muscle tension, nerve irritation, inflammation, scar tissue, or hormonal changes. It is often a combination of physical and emotional contributors. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help identify which systems are involved and create a treatment plan that targets the root cause.
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Muscle-related pain often feels like deep pressure, tightness, or aching that worsens with activity or stress. Nerve-related pain is usually described as burning, tingling, or shooting. During your assessment, your physiotherapist will determine which structures are contributing to your pain and guide you toward the most effective treatment.
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Yes. Stress causes the body to release hormones that increase muscle tension, including in the pelvic floor. This can worsen pain, urinary urgency, or bowel symptoms. Learning relaxation and breathing techniques can help calm the nervous system and reduce discomfort.
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Yes. Physiotherapy can complement medical care for endometriosis and dysmenorrhea by releasing tension, improving circulation, and supporting better pelvic muscle coordination. It also helps reduce the secondary muscle guarding that develops when pain has been present for a long time.
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Pelvic floor physiotherapy should never be painful. Techniques are gentle and tailored to your comfort level. Your therapist will explain every step, use relaxation-based methods, and work within your tolerance to ensure you feel safe and supported throughout treatment.
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You should seek care if pelvic pain lasts longer than a few days, interferes with your daily activities, or is linked to sitting, exercise, or intimacy. Early assessment helps prevent symptoms from becoming chronic and ensures faster recovery.
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