Pelvic Pain: Physiotherapy Assessment & Management
Pelvic pain can occur at any stage of life and may affect the pelvic floor, hips, lower back, or reproductive organs. At Fit 2 Function Allied Health, our pelvic health physiotherapists provide evidence-based assessment and personalized treatment to help reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.
This page explains common causes of pelvic pain, assessment methods, and physiotherapy strategies for relief and long-term management.
What is pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain is any discomfort or pain located in the lower abdomen, pelvic region, or pelvic floor muscles. It may present as:
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Pain during sexual activity (dyspareunia)
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Pain during menstruation or ovulation
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Persistent aching or pressure in the pelvis
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Pain related to standing, sitting, or physical activity
Pelvic pain can be acute or chronic and often involves multiple contributing factors.
Common causes of pelvic pain
Pelvic pain can arise from several sources, including:
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Musculoskeletal: tight or weak pelvic floor muscles, hip or abdominal wall dysfunction
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Neurological: nerve irritation or sensitization
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Gynecological: endometriosis/adenomyosis, adhesions, menstrual pain
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Postpartum changes: trauma, diastasis recti, scar tissue
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Lifestyle factors:Â prolonged sitting, lifting, or exercise habits
A thorough assessment helps identify the primary contributors to your pain.
Physiotherapy assessment
Assessment may include:
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Detailed history of pain patterns, triggers, and impact on daily life
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Pelvic floor muscle examination (with consent) involving real-time ultrasound and/or vaginal assessment
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Hip, lumbar spine, and abdominal wall assessment
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Postural and movement analysis
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Identification of contributing factors and co-existing conditions
This holistic approach ensures an individualized treatment plan that targets the root causes of pain.
Physiotherapy management for pelvic pain
Evidence-based physiotherapy strategies can help relieve pain and improve function:
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Pelvic floor muscle retraining: targeted exercises to restore balance, coordination, and strength
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Manual therapy: to release muscle tension and improve mobility
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Abdominal wall and hip stability exercises: support surrounding structures and reduce strain on the pelvis
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Breathing and relaxation techniques: reduce tension and nerve sensitization
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Lifestyle advice: ergonomics, activity modification, and education to prevent flare-ups
Treatment is tailored to each woman’s symptoms, goals, and stage of life.
Return to daily activities and exercise
Pelvic pain does not need to stop you from living your life. Physiotherapy helps you:
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Engage in exercise, sports, and daily tasks comfortably
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Reduce pain during sexual activity or menstruation
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Improve posture and movement habits to prevent recurrence
A gradual, supported return to activity ensures long-term improvement and confidence.
Book a pelvic pain assessment
If you are experiencing pelvic discomfort, pain with sex, or persistent pelvic pain, our expert physiotherapists can assess your pelvic floor, abdominal wall, and musculoskeletal system to create a personalised management plan.
Learn more about women’s pelvic health & physiotherapy
Explore our other pelvic health condition pages to understand evidence-based assessment, rehabilitation, and life-stage–specific care:
Urinary Incontinence | Pelvic Organ Prolapse | Overactive Bladder & Urgency | Pelvic Pain | Pregnancy Physiotherapy | Birth Preparation | Postpartum Recovery | Constipation & Bowel Dysfunction
Our expert pelvic health physiotherapists provide private, individualised care focused on restoring comfort, confidence, and long-term pelvic health across pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.
