Did You Know That Chronic Health Conditions May Affect Your Pelvic Health?
Pelvic floor dysfunction is rarely just about the pelvis. For many patients, it’s part of a much bigger picture involving complex, chronic health conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Lyme disease and Thyroid Disorders. Chronic conditions often co-occur, and while each affects the body in a different way, they share a common thread - they place unique and significant stress on the pelvic floor.
EDS is a connective tissue disorder that affects collagen—the protein that gives strength and structure to skin, joints and organs. Pelvic floor symptoms include:
● Joint hypermobility: pelvic joints may be overly mobile, affecting core and pelvic floor stability.
● Prolapse risk: ligament laxity increases the risk of pelvic organ prolapse.
● Muscle compensation: weak or unstable structures often lead to muscle overuse or guarding, contributing to pelvic pain and dysfunction.
Patients with EDS often present with urinary urgency, incontinence, pelvic pressure, and/or pain with sitting, sex or bowel movements. Treatment requires a gentle, stability-focused approach that respects tissue fragility.
POTS is a form of dysautonomia. The nervous system doesn’t regulate blood flow or heart rate properly. Common symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, and GI distress—many of which intersect with pelvic floor dysfunction:
● Deconditioning and poor core activation can weaken the pelvic floor.
● Breathing pattern dysfunction, common in POTS, can disrupt coordination between the diaphragm and pelvic floor.
● Constipation and pelvic pain often result from autonomic dysregulation.
Therapy includes breath retraining, graded activity, and gentle mobilization to improve circulation and autonomic stability.
MCAS is a condition in which mast cells release inflammatory mediators too easily, often in response to triggers like stress, exercise, foods or chemicals. In the pelvic floor, this can manifest as:
● Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS)
● Vulvar and vaginal burning or itching without infection
● Pain with urination or intercourse
MCAS-related inflammation can make pelvic tissue hypersensitive and reactive. At Solstice we are trained to use hands-on treatment carefully, incorporate lymphatic drainage, and recommend supportive self-care strategies to calm mast cell flares.
Chronic Lyme Disease can inflame nerves and muscles, leading to pain syndromes, fatigue and pelvic floor dysfunction. Symptoms may include
● pelvic myofascial pain,
● neuralgia (nerve pain) affecting the vulva, rectum or perineum,
● sexual dysfunction and bladder irritation.
Inflammatory processes in Lyme disease can mimic or trigger pelvic pain syndromes like Interstitial Cystitis or Vulvodynia. A trauma-informed, nervous-system-awareness approach helps manage pain in these patients.
Thyroid Disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, affect every organ system—including the pelvic floor:
● Sluggish digestion and constipation (especially in hypothyroidism) place pressure on the pelvic floor.
● Fatigue and low muscle tone reduce the ability to support core structures.
● Hormonal imbalance affects tissue elasticity and healing.
Patients with thyroid dysfunction often benefit from a multidisciplinary approach—we work closely with endocrinologists, nutritionists and functional medicine providers when needed. A complete thyroid blood test panel is key in determining how your thyroid is affected and how to manage symptoms.
TSH alone does not tell the full story - request a comprehensive thyroid panel, which includes TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), Free T4, Free T3, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies. This may require a bit of advocacy, so be clear and explain your symptoms to your doctor. Some labs allow you to order tests directly — just be sure to work with a provider to interpret results safely.
Why Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Matters
Pelvic floor dysfunction in these conditions is systemic - not just mechanical. At Solstice Physiotherapy, we:
✅ understand the complex relationship between chronic illness and pelvic health,
✅ offer trauma-informed, nervous-system-regulating care,
✅ build individualized plans that prioritize pacing, safety, and autonomy,
✅ collaborate with your broader medical team.
We take an individualized, trauma-informed, and system-aware approach to pelvic health. Your therapy plan is customized based on medical history, current symptoms, and how you respond to treatment.
You can expect:
● Comprehensive evaluation
● Breathwork and nervous system regulation
● Manual therapy if appropriate
● Movement and strengthening program
● Bladder and bowel retraining
● Flare management
● Multidisciplinary approach
You Are Not Alone
Have you been told that your pain is “just in your head”? Know this - We believe you. Your symptoms are real. Your experience is valid. And your pelvic health matters. Let us help you find a path forward—one that’s informed, respectful, and attuned to the complexity of your body.
At Solstice Physiotherapy, we specialize in pelvic health and support individuals in maintaining a strong and healthy pelvic floor. Stay informed. Be proactive.
Contact Solstice Physiotherapy at (929)269-2505 or at info@solsticept.com to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your personal concerns and questions.
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