For many women, managing incontinence and the pelvic pain that often comes with endometriosis can feel overwhelming, especially when these conditions are often shrouded in silence. Yet, these are common health challenges that deserve open discussion and proactive care. The combination of a weak pelvic floor and the symptoms of endometriosis like severe pelvic pain, can greatly impact daily life, but understanding the connection and taking small, manageable steps can make a world of difference. Below is a guide for women facing these issues, along with a few real-life testimonials to inspire hope and provide practical advice.
Understanding Endometriosis and the Pelvic Floor
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus, often causing severe pelvic pain, heavy periods, and potential fertility issues. It can also compromise the full function of the pelvic floor due to inflammation, protective reactive tension in the pelvis and the associated bowel issues, like IBS that goes hand in hand with endo.
This condition can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, but there are ways to help the pelvic floor to function more fully when struggling with Endometriosis.
Top Strategies for Managing Pelvic Floor Function and Endometriosis
1. Pelvic Floor Exercises (also called pelvic floor muscle training or kegels)
When inflammation is present, like in Endometriosis, improving the fitness capacity of your pelvic floor muscles can help due to the anti-inflammatory benefits of pelvic floor muscle training. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can also help manage other symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction like incontinence (those annoying bladder leaks many women experience). Regular pelvic floor exercises, like Kegels, can make a big difference over time in how fit your pelvic floor is. The problem is, they’re not always easy to remember and it’s tough to know if you’re doing them correctly. At UROSPOT, it’s almost like outsourcing your Kegels. UROSPOT’s technology stimulates the pelvic floor muscles (contracting and relaxing) 11,000 times in just 28 minutes. This helps reduce inflammation while also improving bladder control and reduce leaks.
“I went to UROSPOT for six sessions after my second child, and I feel so much more in control. I no longer fear sneezing or laughing!” — Maria, 34
2. Dietary Adjustments
Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber and lower in processed foods helps reduce inflammation and helps optimize the microbiome which indirectly helps the bladder to be less irritated and can reduce straining with bowels movements that can be a problem for the connective tissue (the neighbour of the pelvic floor muscles).
“I cut out processed sugars and focused on an anti-inflammatory diet for my endo, and within a few months, I noticed my pain was more manageable.” — Sophie, 29
3. Bladder Training
If you struggle with bladder urgency (that overpowering urge to pee), scheduling bathroom breaks and gradually increasing the time between them can help train your bladder to hold more.
4. Hormonal Therapy & Pain Management for Endometriosis
Managing endometriosis sometimes requires hormone treatments or others pharmaceutical care just as it sometimes requires surgery to reduce pain and the severity of symptoms. It’s important to combine these treatment options with conservative care like what is offered at UROSPOT where you work with a pelvic health physiotherapist. Your clothes remain on, and nothing goes inside your body. This type of rehabilitation care pairs well with the options listed above.
“After years of suffering, my doctor prescribed hormonal therapy that helped me find some relief. Paired with pelvic exercises, I feel like I have my life back.” — Alexandra, 37
5. Mindfulness
Chronic pain from endometriosis can cause muscles to be in a protective state, like a flexed bicep versus a relaxed bicep. Relaxation techniques, like deep breathing and mindfulness, can reduce muscle tension and provide relief from both endo pain and other forms of pelvic floor dysfunction like incontinence.
You’re Not Alone & You Don’t Have to Suffer in Silence
Talking about incontinence and pelvic pain due to endometriosis can feel uncomfortable, but it’s important to know you’re not alone. Many women face these issues, and with the right management strategies, relief is possible. Combining pelvic floor exercises, a supportive diet, medical intervention, and mindfulness can greatly reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Many women have also found relief through innovative technology, health coaching and education at UROSPOT. Their non-invasive, science-backed approach has helped women regain control and confidence by strengthening pelvic floor muscles in a comfortable, supportive setting. These sessions have also helped women reduce pelvic pain. Consultations are 30 minutes and are complimentary.
Incontinence and endometriosis are part of many women’s journeys, but they don’t have to be obstacles. Start small—whether it’s adding a few pelvic floor exercises to your daily routine or making a diet change—and be patient with yourself. Healing takes time, but every step you take brings you closer to managing your health effectively.
