Yoga for Women with Pelvic Pain

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a common problem for many women.1,2 CPP many times has a major component of myofascial pelvic pain (MFPP) and is not often identified by the healthcare provider. The pelvic muscles may be hypertonic and results in MFPP. The MFPP often has trigger points found in the perineum, vagina, urethra and rectum. Trigger points may also be found in the buttocks/hips, back, and abdomen.1

Myofascial release techniques performed by physical therapists specializing in women’s health is one of the first types of treatment.1 Treatment options are recommended to include conventional medicine as well as complementary and alternative modalities.2 Some of the daily exercises include deep breathing, relaxation and pelvic muscle stretches.1 Many of the daily exercises are found in the practice of yoga.

Blue Yoga Studio classes include deep breathing (pranayama) in each class as well as ending each class with relaxation (savasana). Some of the yoga poses that are helpful are child’s pose and hip openers. Self-care is a major component in treating MFPP. A regular yoga practice can help maintain the self-care needed. Blue Yoga offers classes for all levels of yogis from beginners to advanced and classes are Monday – Friday to aid a regular weekly yoga practice.

References:

1) E.A. Pastore & W.B. Katzman, “Recognizing Myofascial Pelvic Pain in the Female Patient with Chronic Pelvic Pain”, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3492521/# , J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2012 Sep. 41(5): 680-691

2) P.D. Abercrombie & L.A Learman, “Providing holistic care for women with chronic pelvic pain”, J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2012 Sep. 41(5): 668-79