What Exactly is Pelvic Pain? 9 Types of Pelvic Pain

Written by a pelvic floor physical therapist at Empower Your Pelvis, in Kansas City, Missouri (Lee Summit, MO and Overland Park, KS)

Pelvic pain is a term we often use, and with Pelvic Pain Awareness Month in May, it's a great time to dive deeper into this broad diagnosis. Pelvic pain can manifest in various parts of the pelvis and occur during different activities. Each individual and situation are unique, but here are nine common types of pelvic pain we frequently treat at Empower Your Pelvis:

1. Pelvic Pain with Daily Activities

Pelvic pain can occur in many areas, such as the vaginal region, rectal area, groin, lower abdomen, or around the sit bones. It can be triggered by activities like sitting, exercising, or increased stress. For some, the pain may come and go, while others experience a constant low level of discomfort throughout their day.

2. Pain with Sex

Some people experience pain during sex and may also have pain with daily activities, while others might only experience discomfort during sex. This pain can develop for several reasons, such as after childbirth (vaginal or c-section), menopause, surgery, or orthopedic issues. For some, the pain resolves immediately after intercourse, while others may feel soreness afterward.

Experiencing discomfort during intimacy? Explore our Empowered in the Bedroom program for support!

3. Pain with Tampons, Menstrual Cups, or Speculum Exams

Pain during tampon use, menstrual cups, or speculum exams can occur for a variety of reasons. Some individuals have experienced this pain their whole lives, while others may notice it after a life event, such as childbirth. Switching to 100% organic tampons may help. We recommend TOP Organic—use code EYP25 for 25% off your next purchase!

Need more guidance? Watch our YouTube video for additional tips!

4. Pain with Bowel Movements

Some individuals report increased pain during bowel movements, while others feel discomfort leading up to a bowel movement, which subsides afterward.

5. Pain with Bladder Filling or Emptying

Pelvic pain may increase as the bladder fills and can sometimes include a burning sensation when urinating. Testing to rule out a UTI is recommended if this is a concern. This pain may or may not be accompanied by frequent urination.

6. Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can cause several types of pelvic pain. Some women feel pressure in the vaginal area due to the weight of the growing baby, while others may experience pain at the SI joints (back of the hips) or the pubic symphysis (front of the pelvis), often related to hormonal changes and ligament laxity.

7. Period Pain

While many women accept period cramps as normal, severe pain that causes you to miss work, school, or daily activities isn't something to brush off. Painful cramps are a form of pelvic pain that should be addressed.

8. Orthopedic Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain isn’t exclusive to pregnancy. Non-pregnant individuals may experience pain related to orthopedic issues, such as hip or low back pain. These pains can often affect the surrounding areas of the pelvis.

9. Pain Associated with Other Conditions

Pelvic pain can also accompany conditions like endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, IBS, or fibromyalgia. Pain may occur in the vaginal area, abdomen, lower back, or even the legs.

Get Professional Help

If you're looking for “pelvic floor therapy near me”, consider scheduling a consultation at one of our locations in Kansas City-Overland Park, Kansas, or Lees Summit, Missouri. Click here to book your appointment.

Join Our Empowered in the Bedroom Program

Struggling with discomfort during intimacy? It’s time to take back control and find lasting relief. Our Empowered in the Bedroom program provides you with the tools, knowledge, and support to ease discomfort, rebuild confidence, and strengthen your connection with your body. Enroll today and take the first step towards enjoying a comfortable and satisfying intimate life—feeling empowered, refreshed, and renewed!

With wellness in your pelvis-

Amanda Fisher, PT, DPT
Owner, Empower Your Pelvis, a pelvic floor physical therapy clinic in Kansas City (Lee’s Summit, MO and Overland Park, KS)