How to Help with Your PCOS Pain

Living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can be a journey of ups and downs. If you’re looking for ways to manage and alleviate your PCOS pain, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll dive into defining PCOS and its symptoms, what causes PCOS pain, and how pelvic floor physical therapy can be a game-changer in your pain management toolkit

What is PCOS exactly?

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is a hormonal disorder that affects the reproductive system in people assigned female at birth. In PCOS, your ovaries may develop small cysts (fluid-filled sacs), which are actually immature follicles that have not fully developed into eggs.

The exact cause of PCOS isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Hormonal imbalances can play a significant role in the condition, specifically higher levels of androgens in the body.

Getting a diagnosis is usually based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specific criteria set by medical guidelines from your healthcare team.

Understanding Your PCOS Pain

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the significant challenges with PCOS is the pain it can cause in various areas of the body. As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I have seen this pain in my patients manifest through:

1. Pelvic Pain
Many people with PCOS experience, unsurprisingly, pelvic pain, which is due to cysts on the ovaries and inflammation in the pelvic region.

2. Menstrual Pain
Painful menstrual cramps, medically known as dysmenorrhea, can be more intense in individuals with PCOS.

3. Back Pain
Some people with PCOS may experience lower back pain, which can be related to hormonal imbalances or the added strain on the body.

4. Digestive Discomfort
PCOS pain can sometimes extend to the digestive system, leading to bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort.

Getting Help with PCOS

It’s important to know that the experience of PCOS pain can vary from person to person. Some may have mild discomfort, while others may face more severe challenges. While PCOS-related pain can be frustrating, it’s important to set realistic expectations around it.

Here’s what’s important to know:

Seek Medical Guidance
If you experience intense or worsening pain from PCOS, you should always consult with your healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and personalized treatment options.

Individual Differences
No two individuals with PCOS are the same. Your pain experience may differ from someone else’s, so don’t compare your journey with others’.

Holistic Approach
Managing PCOS pain often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and therapies. Embracing a holistic approach, including therapies like Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy to help you heal and Mental Health-Based Therapy to help you cope, can help you get the best possible results.

The Role of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for PCOS

Muscle Relaxation
Pelvic floor physical therapy includes techniques that relax and release tension in the pelvic floor muscles, which can reduce pelvic pain and discomfort.

Core Stabilization
Strengthening your core and pelvic floor muscles can improve stability, support your pelvis, and ease back pain associated with PCOS.

Pain Management Techniques
A pelvic floor physical therapist (like me!) can teach you pain management techniques, including breathing exercises and relaxation methods to cope with your PCOS pain.

Digestive Support
Pelvic floor physical therapy can also address any digestive discomfort related to PCOS, providing relief and better digestion.

Start Your PCOS Management Journey

Managing your PCOS pain is a journey, and it’s okay to ask for help. Embrace the support of a pelvic floor physical therapist, like me, connect with a mental health professional, and consider lifestyle changes that align with your wellness goals. With patience and persistence, you can take control of your PCOS-related pain to live a happier, healthier life!

If you’re looking for a pelvic floor physical therapist who’s ready to help you get the healing you deserve, let’s chat!! You can either book a virtual session or in-person session to receive a specialized, unique-to-you treatment plan to get the healing you need.

We’ll work together to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. I’ll guide you through exercises, educate you on proper techniques, and provide you with the tools and resources to continue your progress outside of our sessions. I always strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for my patients to ask questions, share concerns, and receive the care they need

Want to know what to expect from pelvic floor physical therapy? My e-book, How to Get the Most Out of Pelvic Floor Therapy, was created to help you learn the basics of the pelvic floor, how to find a pelvic floor specialist who’s a great match, what to expect at appointments, treatment possibilities, and more!

Looking for additional resources on pelvic health? My YouTube channel holds dozens of videos where I offer free pelvic floor training, yoga exercises, and more. My instagram page takes a little bit more of a light hearted approach while still providing educational content. And of course, if you have a specific pelvic floor subject you’re looking for more information on, a quick search of my blogs may give you the answers you need.

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links. Laura Meihofer’s LLC is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program and others, as an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to products Laura organically uses and trusts. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link, your cost will be the same, but Laura will automatically receive a small commission. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps her spread her message!

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment options specific to your needs.