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Symptoms

What if I’ve already tried pelvic floor physical therapy?

The short answer

If pelvic floor PT didn’t help or made symptoms worse, it doesn’t necessarily mean pelvic floor work isn’t a fit. The approach may not have been tailored to endometriosis-related pain patterns, and a different, individualized approach could be worthwhile.

Pelvic floor physical therapy for endometriosis is often very different from general physical therapy, even when both are called “pelvic PT.” If earlier therapy didn’t help or made symptoms worse, that doesn’t necessarily mean pelvic floor work isn’t a fit. It may mean the approach wasn’t tailored to endometriosis-related pain patterns.

In our experience, the most effective plans are highly individualized and coordinated with the rest of your care, taking into account how your symptoms change across your cycle and what’s driving pain in the pelvis. If you’ve tried PT before, we’ll want to understand what was done, how you responded, and what symptoms you have now so we can help you decide whether a different pelvic floor approach could be worthwhile. If you’re unsure, you can reach out to schedule a consultation with our team.

Where to go from here

Understand it, compare it with what you're feeling, then talk it through with us.

Speak with Us

Didn't Find Relief with PT?

Our specialists tailor pelvic floor therapy specifically for endometriosis-related pain patterns. We coordinate care to fit your unique symptoms and cycle changes for better results.

Questions people ask next

All symptoms questions
  • What is pelvic floor physical therapy like, and will it hurt?

    Pelvic floor physical therapy usually starts with a conversation and a gentle assessment, and it should not feel like a painful exam. Treatment may include hands-on muscle release and retraining. Some people feel temporary soreness or a brief increase in symptoms afterward.

  • Is internal pelvic floor therapy always required?

    Internal pelvic floor therapy is not always required; the need depends on your symptoms, exam findings, and goals. Alternatives can be used, and nothing is performed without your clear, informed consent. You can pause or decline treatment at any time.

  • How does pelvic floor physical therapy help pain?

    Pelvic floor physical therapy helps by addressing muscles and connective tissues that can amplify pelvic pain. It also helps the pelvic floor relax and engage at the right times, so sitting, urinating, bowel movements, or intercourse are less likely to trigger symptoms.

  • Do I need pelvic floor therapy before or after endometriosis surgery?

    Often, yes. Depending on your symptoms, pelvic floor therapy may help before endometriosis surgery to reduce tightness and improve bowel or bladder symptoms or pain with sex, and after surgery to support comfortable movement and function.

Reach Out

Have a question?

Lotus Endometriosis Institute provides California-based surgical evaluation and advanced excision care for patients with suspected endometriosis, adenomyosis, complex pelvic pain, and related conditions.


Many patients contact us from outside California to learn whether traveling for in-person evaluation and possible surgery may be appropriate.

Call Us

(424) 255-1340

(805) 920-0909

Fax: (805) 935-4338

Santa Monica, CA

2121 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404

Operating Hours

8am - 5pm
Monday - Friday

Arroyo Grande, CA

154 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420