Stress and Your Pelvic Floor: It’s Not Just ‘In Your Head’

When life gets busy or overwhelming, we often expect our mental health to take the hit. But did you know stress can also directly affect your pelvic floor function?

Many people notice that when their stress levels rise, so do certain physical symptoms:

• Constipation

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Increased urinary urgency or frequency

• Abdominal cramping

• Pain with intercourse

• Low back pain

These symptoms aren’t just coincidences or “in your head.” They’re your body’s way of responding to a nervous system stuck in survival mode.

How Stress Impacts the Pelvic Floor

Stress doesn’t just live in the mind, it lives in the body. Here’s how it can interfere with pelvic health:

• Muscle tension: Chronic stress can lead to clenched or overactive pelvic floor muscles, making it harder for them to relax and function properly.

• Increased inflammation: Stress can trigger or worsen inflammatory conditions like endometriosis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

• Poor posture: Slouching or tension-based postural habits may compress the pelvic organs and floor.

• Disrupted digestion: Rushing through meals, skipping hydration, or living in fight-or-flight mode can slow digestion and contribute to bloating and discomfort.

While addressing individual symptoms is important, looking at the root cause. This is how our body responds to stress and in doing so, can create more lasting change.

At Root to Rise Physical Therapy & Pelvic Health, we believe in a holistic approach to physical therapy.  Our Acupuncturists are specialized in treating hormone conditions and fertility support. We are located in Scarborough, Saco, and Bath, and are here to support you!

Schedule your free 30 minute consultation with us in Saco, Scarborough, Bath or virtually today!