The Impact of Hormonal Birth Control on Pelvic Floor Health: What You Need to Know

Dr. Sasha Speer, PT, DPT
16 hours ago
5 min read

Hormonal birth control is a widely used method for managing reproductive health, preventing pregnancy, and regulating menstrual cycles. Millions of women rely on hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches, IUDs, and implants to maintain their health and wellness.

However, many women may not realize the potential effects that these hormonal methods can have on their pelvic floor health.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus, rectum, and other pelvic organs. It plays a vital role in controlling bladder and bowel function, as well as sexual health.

But how does hormonal birth control, which alters the body’s natural hormone levels, impact this critical area?

Let’s explore the connection between hormonal contraceptives and pelvic floor health, and what you can do to minimize any negative effects.

Understanding Hormonal Birth Control

Hormonal birth control methods typically contain synthetic forms of hormones like estrogen and progestin, which regulate ovulation and other aspects of the menstrual cycle.

These hormones alter the natural balance of hormones in your body to prevent pregnancy, but they can also affect other systems, including the pelvic floor.

How Hormonal Birth Control Affects the Pelvic Floor

1. Muscle Relaxation and Weakening

One of the most significant ways hormonal birth control can affect pelvic floor health is by influencing muscle tone. Estrogen and progesterone, the hormones commonly found in many birth control methods, can relax the smooth muscles of the pelvic region. While this relaxation can be beneficial for reducing menstrual cramps and pelvic discomfort, it can also lead to weakened pelvic floor muscles over time.

What this means: A weakened pelvic floor can lead to issues like incontinence (urinary or fecal), pelvic organ prolapse (when organs like the bladder or uterus descend into the vaginal canal), and decreased sexual satisfaction.

2. Impact on Vaginal Health

Hormonal birth control can reduce the natural lubrication in the vaginal tissues. This can result in vaginal dryness, which can cause discomfort during intercourse. Reduced lubrication can also lead to a decrease in sexual pleasure and may contribute to pelvic pain.

What this means: Vaginal dryness is often experienced with hormonal methods that contain higher doses of estrogen or synthetic progestins, such as birth control pills or implants. If left unaddressed, it can lead to more severe symptoms like irritation, burning, and pain during sex.

3. Changes to Blood Flow and Tissue Health

Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining the elasticity and strength of the pelvic tissues, including the pelvic floor muscles. When the body is exposed to synthetic forms of estrogen, it can disrupt the natural flow of this hormone, potentially weakening the supportive tissues and muscles of the pelvic floor.

What this means: Over time, weakened tissues may contribute to pelvic instability, increase the risk of prolapse, and heighten sensitivity to stress or strain on the pelvic area.

4. Increased Risk of Urinary Incontinence

Hormonal contraceptives can affect the pelvic floor muscles’ ability to respond to increased pressure, such as when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. This can lead to an increase in urinary incontinence, especially for women who already have a history of pelvic floor issues.

What this means: If you are prone to urinary incontinence or notice more frequent leaks while using hormonal birth control, this could be a sign that the pelvic floor muscles have been weakened by hormonal fluctuations.

How to Maintain Pelvic Floor Health While Using Hormonal Birth Control

The good news is that there are strategies you can incorporate into your daily life to protect and strengthen your pelvic floor health while using hormonal birth control. These steps can help reduce the risk of pelvic floor dysfunction and maintain optimal well-being.

1. Pelvic Floor Exercises

Regular targeted pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic region, improve bladder control, and reduce the risk of prolapse. By contracting and relaxing the pelvic muscles, you can maintain muscle tone and prevent weakness that can result from hormonal contraceptives.

2. Stay Active

Regular physical activity is essential for overall pelvic health. Activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga can help promote circulation, reduce stress on the pelvic floor, and maintain muscle strength. Avoid excessive high-impact exercises that place unnecessary strain on the pelvic region, such as heavy lifting or high-impact aerobics.

3. Hydrate and Maintain Healthy Bowel Movements

Staying hydrated and managing bowel health is crucial for protecting the pelvic floor. Dehydration can exacerbate vaginal dryness, and constipation can put additional strain on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to weakness and prolapse over time.

4. Use Lubrication to Manage Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common side effect of hormonal birth control, but it can be alleviated with the use of water-based lubricants or vaginal moisturizers. These products can provide relief from dryness during sexual activity and help prevent irritation and discomfort. Look for lubricants that are free of irritating chemicals or fragrances. You may also want to consider vaginal moisturizers that can be used regularly to maintain moisture balance.

5. Consult a Pelvic Health Specialist

If you experience significant discomfort, pelvic pain, or incontinence while on hormonal birth control, it may be helpful to consult with a pelvic health specialist. A physical therapist specializing in pelvic health can guide you through exercises and techniques that specifically address the issues you’re facing. Additionally, they can assess whether your pelvic floor muscles are functioning optimally. Seeking professional help early can prevent minor issues from becoming major concerns and ensure your pelvic health is supported throughout your reproductive years.

Hormonal birth control is an effective tool for managing reproductive health, but it’s important to understand how it can impact the pelvic floor. While some women may experience pelvic floor weakness or discomfort, there are steps you can take to strengthen your muscles, alleviate symptoms, and maintain overall pelvic health.

By staying proactive and informed, you can continue to benefit from hormonal contraception while minimizing any negative effects on your pelvic floor.

If you're concerned about how hormonal birth control may be affecting your pelvic health, or if you're experiencing any symptoms such as incontinence, pelvic pain, or dryness, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider or pelvic health expert at Auria Pelvic Health.

We’re here to help you navigate your pelvic health journey with expert advice, tailored care, and support.

Auria Pelvic Health

8929 S Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 412

Los Angeles, CA 90045

Phone: 213-699-3996

Website: www.theaurialife.com

You deserve to feel your best—let us help you get there.