Pelvic Floor Spasm: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment Options
Dec 20, 2025
Pelvic floor disorders are varied and complex health problems that can significantly impact your quality of life. As of 2008, nearly 24% of women in the United States had at least one pelvic floor disorder, and the number of people affected increases with age.
Despite how common these conditions are, pelvic floor symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed—leading many people to suffer in silence without realizing effective treatment options are available.
What Is Pelvic Floor Spasm?
Definition Pelvic floor spasm occurs when the pelvic floor muscles contract involuntarily at continuous or intermittent intervals, often without the person realizing it is happening. This dysfunction can present as pain, bladder problems, or bowel dysfunction.
While some people assume pelvic floor spasm is simply part of aging, this condition is not normal and can often be treated—and in many cases improved—through proper care. Because pelvic floor spasm can have a profound impact on daily comfort and function, early identification and treatment are important.
Pelvic Pain Is Not “Just Something To Live With”
Tip: Pelvic floor symptoms are common, but they are not something you have to accept. Treatment focuses on restoring normal muscle function—not masking symptoms.
How Do You Know You Have Pelvic Floor Spasm?
Pelvic pain and incontinence are two of the most common symptoms that raise concern for pelvic floor spasm. Incontinence may present as stress incontinence, urge incontinence, or mixed incontinence.
Pelvic pain related to pelvic floor spasm may be felt in the pelvis, abdomen, or even the low back. This pain is often chronic and may worsen with sitting, physical activity, or prolonged stress.
If you suspect you may have pelvic floor spasm, it’s important to seek a medical diagnosis as early as possible to prevent symptoms from worsening and to begin appropriate treatment.
What Does Pelvic Floor Spasm Feel Like?
Pelvic floor spasm is often described as a sensation of tight bands of muscle or deep pressure. This tightness can frequently be reproduced during a physical exam through gentle palpation of the pelvic floor muscles.
Common Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Spasm
Symptoms associated with pelvic floor spasm or dysfunction may include:
| Symptom | How It May Feel or Present |
|---|---|
| Incomplete bowel movements | A constant sensation of needing to go, even after using the bathroom |
| Urinary or fecal leakage | Unexpected leakage when coughing, exercising, or feeling urgency |
| Pelvic or lower back pain | Deep aching, pressure, or burning in the pelvis or lower back |
| Genital or lower abdominal pain | Sharp or dull pain that may worsen with sitting or activity |
| Painful urination | Burning or discomfort without signs of infection |
| Difficulty starting urination | Needing to strain or wait for urine flow to begin |
Women with pelvic floor spasm may experience pain during sexual activity, while men may experience erectile dysfunction related to excessive pelvic floor muscle tension.
Pelvic Pain Can Feel Isolating—You’re Not Alone
Working with a provider trained in pelvic health can help identify the cause of your symptoms and guide you toward lasting relief.
Can Men Have Pelvic Floor Spasm?
Yes. Pelvic floor spasm is not a female-only condition. Men also have pelvic floor muscles and can experience symptoms such as pain, urinary dysfunction, or sexual health concerns related to pelvic floor tension.
What Causes Pelvic Floor Spasm?
Pelvic floor spasm does not have a single cause. Instead, it is often the result of multiple contributing factors, including:
In many cases, pelvic floor spasm is associated with broader movement dysfunction or muscle tension patterns addressed through physical therapy and specialized pelvic care.
Diagnosing Pelvic Floor Spasm
Diagnosing pelvic floor spasm typically involves a multi-step evaluation. Your provider will begin by reviewing your medical history and symptoms, followed by an internal and external assessment of pelvic floor muscle coordination and tone.
Additional diagnostic tools may include anal manometry, surface electrodes, defecography, or uroflow testing, depending on your symptoms.
Treatment Options for Pelvic Floor Spasm
Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific diagnosis and contributing factors. In many cases, care is coordinated between your physician and a physical therapist trained in pelvic floor therapy.
Common treatment approaches may include:
Relaxation Is Just as Important as Strength
Tip: Pelvic floor spasm treatment often focuses on reducing muscle tension first—strengthening exercises are added only when appropriate.
Scheduling Your First Appointment
A physical therapist specializing in pelvic health can help restore comfort and improve daily function by addressing the root cause of pelvic floor spasm. At PT Effect, treatment focuses on long-term results through movement-based care—not temporary symptom management.
It’s important not to let fear or embarrassment prevent you from getting help. Pelvic floor dysfunction is more common than many people realize, and compassionate, professional care can make a meaningful difference.
Ready To Find Relief From Pelvic Floor Spasm?
Our team provides discreet, personalized pelvic floor care designed to help you feel confident and comfortable again.
For informational purposes only.
