Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya, MD

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya, MD Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya, MD, Medical and health, 421 N Rodeo Drive, Penthouse 1, Beverly Hills, CA.

Urogynecologist and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgeon at Cedars Sinai Medical Center
Founder of the LA Institute of Pelvic & Sexual Health
Board Certified OBGYN
Certified Menopause and Sexual Health Expert
Learn more: linktr.ee/drurogyn

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Why It Matters More Than You ThinkWhen most people hear the word “physical therapy,” they...
08/03/2025

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Why It Matters More Than You Think

When most people hear the word “physical therapy,” they imagine rehabbing a sprained ankle or recovering from back surgery. But did you know that physical therapy can also help with issues like bladder leaks, pelvic pain, and even painful s*x? Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized and powerful tool that many women don’t know about—but should.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of your pelvis that supports your bladder, uterus, and re**um. These muscles help control your p*e and p**p, keep your pelvic organs in place, and play a big role in s*xual function. Just like any other muscle group, your pelvic floor can become weak, tight, or uncoordinated—and that’s when problems can start.

Pelvic floor physical therapists are specially trained to evaluate and treat the muscles, nerves, and tissues of the pelvic region. They don’t just hand you a sheet of Kegel exercises and send you on your way. Instead, they take the time to understand your symptoms, assess how your pelvic floor is functioning, and create a plan that’s tailored to your specific needs.

So, what kinds of issues can pelvic floor PT help with?

One of the most common is urinary incontinence—those frustrating leaks when you laugh, cough, or exercise. For many women, especially after childbirth or during menopause, the pelvic floor muscles weaken or lose coordination. A therapist can help you retrain those muscles so they support your bladder better and reduce or even eliminate leaks.

Pelvic floor PT is also incredibly helpful for pelvic organ prolapse, which happens when the bladder, uterus, or re**um starts to drop or press into the va**nal wall. This can create a sensation of heaviness or bulging, especially after standing for long periods. Strengthening and supporting the pelvic muscles can make a big difference in how these symptoms feel—and in some cases, help you avoid or delay surgery.

If you’ve ever experienced pelvic pain—whether it’s pain with s*x, tampon use, or just sitting for long periods—pelvic floor therapy might be the missing piece. Tight, overactive pelvic muscles can be just as problematic as weak ones. A therapist can help gently release tension, teach you how to relax those muscles, and improve blood flow and flexibility in the area.

Even bowel issues like constipation or accidental stool leakage can be related to how well (or not well) your pelvic floor is working. Physical therapy can help you learn better coordination between your abdominal and pelvic muscles, improve your ability to empty your bowels, and reduce embarrassing accidents.

Pelvic floor therapy is also helpful before and after childbirth. Pregnancy and delivery—whether va**nal or C-section—can stretch, strain, or injure the pelvic muscles. Many new moms experience bladder leakage, pelvic pain, or a feeling that things just don’t feel “normal” anymore. Pelvic PT can help your body heal and get you back to feeling strong and confident again.

What’s a visit like?

A pelvic floor PT session typically includes a conversation about your symptoms and goals, a movement and posture assessment, and often (but not always) an internal exam to check the pelvic muscles. Everything is done with your full consent and comfort in mind, and you’re always in control of what happens during the visit. Therapy may involve exercises, stretches, biofeedback, relaxation techniques, or hands-on manual therapy—all tailored to your body and your needs.

The length of pelvic floor physical therapy varies from person to person, depending on the symptoms, underlying cause, and how your body responds to treatment. Some patients notice improvement after just a few sessions, while others may need several months of therapy for lasting results. Typically, visits are once a week or every other week, with personalized exercises to do at home in between. Your therapist will regularly reassess your progress and adjust the plan as needed, with the goal of helping you build strength, coordination, and confidence over time—not keeping you in therapy forever.

Is it hard to get an appointment?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a valuable part of the healthcare system, but access to it can sometimes feel confusing or limited. In many cases, you’ll need a referral from your primary care provider, OB-GYN, or specialist like a urogynecologist to get started, though some states allow direct access without a referral. Insurance coverage varies—some plans cover it fully or partially, while others may limit the number of visits or require pre-authorization. It's a good idea to call your insurance company and ask specifically about coverage for pelvic floor physical therapy. Unfortunately, access can also be a challenge depending on where you live. In some areas, especially rural or underserved communities, there may be a shortage of pelvic floor therapists, or you may need to travel to find a specialist. That said, awareness is growing, and more clinics are offering this service, including virtual visits for certain conditions.

The bottom line?

Pelvic floor issues are common, but they’re not “just part of being a woman” and they’re certainly not something you have to live with. If you’re dealing with bladder leaks, pelvic pressure, pain during s*x, constipation, or any kind of discomfort in your pelvic region, there is help—and pelvic floor physical therapy might be the missing piece you’ve been looking for. You deserve to feel good in your body, to move through your day without worry, and to enjoy intimacy without pain. If something feels off, talk to your doctor or urogynecologist. Pelvic floor therapy isn’t just about muscles—it’s about restoring function, confidence, and quality of life.

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

🚽 Burning, urgency, frequency—classic UTI symptoms—but your urine culture keeps coming back negative?You’re not imaginin...
07/27/2025

🚽 Burning, urgency, frequency—classic UTI symptoms—but your urine culture keeps coming back negative?

You’re not imagining it, and you’re not alone. Many women experience UTI-like symptoms without an actual infection.

In this video, I explain why this happens, including:
✅ A hypertonic (too tight) pelvic floor that mimics UTI symptoms
✅ Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), when hormonal changes affect the bladder and va**nal tissues
✅ Other common, overlooked causes of bladder discomfort

I also share what you can do about it—treatments, pelvic floor therapy, va**nal estrogen, and more.

Your symptoms are real, and you deserve answers. Watch now to learn how to get the right diagnosis and start feeling better.

Watch the new YouTube video out now: https://vist.ly/3zbwz

🩺 Subscribe for more pelvic and bladder health tips!
📩 Drop your questions in the comments—I’m here to help.

Bladder Instillation for Interstitial CystitisIf you live with interstitial cystitis—sometimes called IC or painful blad...
07/20/2025

Bladder Instillation for Interstitial Cystitis

If you live with interstitial cystitis—sometimes called IC or painful bladder syndrome—you already know how much it can disrupt your life. The constant need to urinate, the burning or aching pain, and the discomfort during intimacy or even just sitting for long periods can feel overwhelming. While there is no single cure for IC, there are many treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. One of these options is called bladder instillation.

Bladder instillation means placing medication directly into your bladder, where it can work right at the source of the problem. During this treatment, your healthcare provider gently inserts a thin, flexible catheter through the urethra (the small opening where urine exits) and into the bladder. A liquid medication mixture is slowly instilled—meaning the bladder is filled with it—and it stays inside for about 1-2 hrs or as long as you able to hold it. The idea is to coat the inside of the bladder and calm the irritated tissues.

The specific medicines used in bladder instillation for IC are chosen to target inflammation, pain, and the damaged protective layer of the bladder lining. Often, the solution includes a numbing medicine such as lidocaine, which can help relieve pain fairly quickly. It may also contain medications like heparin, hyaluronic acid, or chondroitin sulfate—ingredients that act like a soothing barrier to help protect the bladder lining and prevent irritants in the urine from triggering more inflammation. In some cases, a mild steroid or other anti-inflammatory medication is added to help settle down the immune response. Your doctor will decide on the combination of medicines based on your symptoms and treatment goals.

Many women wonder whether bladder instillation is painful. While everyone’s experience is a little different, most people find the procedure causes only mild discomfort or pressure, especially during the catheter insertion. You may feel a slight burning sensation while the medication is going in or when you urinate afterward, but this usually goes away within a few hours. Relaxing your pelvic floor muscles and taking slow breaths can help make the process easier.

Bladder instillation is not a cure for interstitial cystitis, but it can be an effective way to ease symptoms over time. Some women notice improvement after just a few treatments, while others need a series of instillations—sometimes weekly or every other week—to get the most relief. Your doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your life and your needs.

It’s important to remember that bladder instillation is usually used together with other strategies for IC. This may include changes to your diet, pelvic floor physical therapy, stress management, oral medications, or gentle bladder training. Combining approaches can often lead to the best results.

If you’re thinking about bladder instillation, take time to talk openly with your urogynecologist about your symptoms and any questions or worries you have. Make sure to share if you have any allergies, active infections, or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Your care team will help you decide whether this treatment is right for you and will guide you through each step.

Living with interstitial cystitis can feel isolating, but you are not alone, and there are options to help you feel better. If you’d like to learn more about bladder instillation or other treatments for IC, consider scheduling a visit with a healthcare professional who specializes in bladder health. Together, you can build a plan to reduce pain and reclaim more comfort and confidence in your everyday life.

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

Ever looked at your urinalysis report and thought, “What does any of this mean?”Let's go step by step through everything...
07/13/2025

Ever looked at your urinalysis report and thought, “What does any of this mean?”

Let's go step by step through everything your urinalysis measures—and what it means when those numbers are too high, too low, or just a little out of range.

You’ll learn:
✅ What’s considered normal for pH, specific gravity, protein, glucose, ketones, leukocytes, nitrites, and more
✅ How to interpret common findings like blood, bacteria, or white cells
✅ Which results might indicate a UTI, dehydration, kidney issues, or other concerns
✅ When to follow up with your healthcare provider

Watch now: https://vist.ly/3xqyk

Painful S*x After Birth? It Might Be Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation Pain during s*x after childbirth is more common...
07/06/2025

Painful S*x After Birth?
It Might Be Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation

Pain during s*x after childbirth is more common than most people realize—and it’s not just due to healing from delivery. For many breastfeeding mothers, a condition called Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation may be the culprit.

What Is Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation?

Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation (GSL) refers to a collection of symptoms caused by estrogen deficiency affecting the v***a, va**na, urethra, and bladder. While this term was originally coined for postmenopausal women (Genitourinary syndrome of menopause – GSM), recent research showed a similar pattern in lactating postpartum women.

During breastfeeding, estrogen levels drop significantly—a normal hormonal response that helps support milk production. But this hormonal state can cause symptoms like va**nal dryness, burning or irritation, decreased lubrication, pain with pe*******on (dyspareunia), urinary frequency or urgency and increased risk of va**nal infections.

A 2023 commentary in The Journal of S*xual Medicine proposed the term “lactation-related GSM” to describe this estrogen-deficient state that mirrors menopause, particularly in women who are exclusively breastfeeding. Up to 60% of breastfeeding women experience some form of vulvova**nal atrophy or painful s*x in the first three months postpartum, with nearly a third still reporting symptoms at 12 months.

The Role of Estrogen in Vaginal Health

Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining va**nal health by promoting the growth of lactobacilli—beneficial bacteria that help keep the va**nal environment acidic (low pH). This acidic environment inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria.

When estrogen levels drop during lactation, the number of lactobacilli decreases, leading to a higher va**nal pH. This shift creates a more favorable environment for the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, such as Gardnerella va**nalis, which can lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Why Is It Overlooked?

Postpartum pain is often normalized or dismissed—especially in breastfeeding women, where the focus is understandably on the baby’s feeding and weight gain. Unfortunately, this means many women are told “it’s just part of healing,” or they hesitate to bring it up at all.

But this isn’t just about discomfort—it can affect body image, relationship satisfaction, and overall well-being. And most importantly, it’s treatable.

What Can You Do About It?

1. Topical Estrogen Therapy
Low-dose va**nal estrogen (in the form of creams, tablets, or rings) is considered safe during breastfeeding. It acts locally with minimal systemic absorption and can significantly improve va**nal moisture, elasticity, and comfort.

2. Non-Hormonal Vaginal Moisturizers and Lubricants
Over-the-counter products like hyaluronic acid-based moisturizers can provide temporal relief, and use of the lubricants can help during s*x. These don’t treat the underlying hormonal cause, but they can improve day-to-day comfort.

3. Gentle Pelvic Health Practices
Although pelvic floor dysfunction is a separate issue, but GSL can lead to involuntary muscle guarding or tension. Consider gentle pelvic stretches, breathing exercises, and pelvic floor physical therapy to help with that.

4. Normalize the Conversation
If you’re experiencing symptoms, you are not alone and you are not overreacting. Pain is not just “part of the process,” and there are effective treatments available. Open up the conversation with your provider—ideally one familiar with postpartum and s*xual health.

Bottom Line
Painful s*x while breastfeeding isn’t just a healing issue—it might be GSL. Understanding this condition can help you get the care you deserve. Just like we support breastfeeding moms with lactation consultants and feeding plans, we should also support them in reclaiming their comfort, confidence, and s*xual wellness.

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

New YouTube Video Out Now: https://vist.ly/3n84ss7Feeling pressure, bulging, or difficulty with bowel movements? You cou...
06/29/2025

New YouTube Video Out Now: https://vist.ly/3n84ss7

Feeling pressure, bulging, or difficulty with bowel movements? You could be dealing with a rectocele—a common but often misunderstood type of pelvic organ prolapse. So let's break down:
✔️ What a rectocele is.
✔️ What causes it?
✔️ Common symptoms to look out for
✔️ Treatment options—from lifestyle tips to pelvic floor therapy to surgery

If you've ever wondered why it feels like something's ""falling down there"" or why it’s suddenly harder to go to the bathroom, this video is for you.

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Could Your Medications Be Causing Vaginal Dryness? Vaginal dryness is something many women experience, but few feel comf...
06/22/2025

Could Your Medications Be Causing Vaginal Dryness?

Vaginal dryness is something many women experience, but few feel comfortable talking about. Whether you're in your 30s or navigating menopause, if you're noticing discomfort during intimacy, itching, or a feeling of dryness that just wasn’t there before, you’re not alone—and there may be more to the story than hormonal changes alone. One often-overlooked cause? Medications.

Some medications affect the body’s natural ability to stay hydrated or produce moisture where we need it most. Vaginal tissue is sensitive to changes in hormone levels and hydration. Estrogen plays a big role in keeping the va**nal lining thick, elastic, and naturally lubricated. When estrogen dips, as it does during perimenopause and menopause, dryness can occur. But certain medications can mimic this effect, even if you're not going through menopause.

As a urogynecologist, I often see patients who are surprised to learn that the very medications helping their heart, mood, or allergies might also be affecting their va**nal health. The connection isn’t always obvious, but it’s real, so let’s go through some of the most common ones.

1. Antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine, diphenhydramine)
These medications are often used to treat allergies and hay fever. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical involved in allergic responses. But histamine doesn’t just cause sneezing and watery eyes—it also helps maintain moisture in your mucous membranes, including in the va**na. By drying out nasal passages and tear ducts, these drugs can also dry out va**nal tissue.

Long-acting antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are often better tolerated than older-generation ones like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), which have stronger anticholinergic effects. However, even newer options can cause dryness, especially if taken daily. If allergies are a long-term issue, talk with your doctor about non-drying options such as nasal steroid sprays (like fluticasone) or leukotriene inhibitors (like montelukast), which may have less impact on moisture levels.

2. Antidepressants and Anti-Anxiety Medications (e.g., SSRIs like sertraline, fluoxetine, citalopram)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are among the most commonly prescribed medications for depression and anxiety. They increase serotonin in the brain, which helps stabilize mood. However, serotonin can also inhibit s*xual arousal and reduce va**nal lubrication by affecting the nervous system’s control over blood flow and secretions in the pelvic region. These effects are real and can impact quality of life and intimacy.

Some women tolerate serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine or duloxetine better in terms of s*xual side effects, though this varies. Bupropion (Wellbutrin), which works through dopamine and norepinephrine pathways, is often associated with fewer s*xual side effects—and may even improve libido for some.

3. Hormonal Contraceptives (especially low-estrogen or progestin-only methods)
While birth control pills are often associated with regulating hormones, they can reduce estrogen and testosterone levels in va**nal tissue (your hormonal IUD can do that as well!). Low estrogen and testosterone can lead to thinning of the va**nal lining and reduced natural lubrication.

4. Breast Cancer Therapies (e.g., tamoxifen, anastrozole, letrozole)
These medications are designed to block estrogen’s effects or lower estrogen production in the body—an essential part of breast cancer treatment. But because estrogen is crucial for va**nal health, these therapies often result in severe va**nal dryness, itching, and painful in*******se.

Aromatase inhibitors, such as anastrozole and letrozole, are particularly drying because they nearly eliminate estrogen production in postmenopausal women. Tamoxifen, which blocks estrogen at the receptor level, tends to be a little gentler on va**nal tissue but can still cause dryness for some.

In these cases, we don’t aim to stop the medication—but we can often help manage the symptoms. Vaginal estrogens are still an option, but its always good to consult with the individual oncology team. Alternative options are va**nal lasers and non-hormonal va**nal moisturizers.

5. Diuretics and Antihypertensives (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, atenolol)
Diuretics (“water pills”) help lower blood pressure by prompting the kidneys to flush excess fluid. This can be life-saving, but it also means your body has less water available for tissues, including the va**nal lining. If va**nal dryness becomes problematic and you're on a diuretic, it’s worth reviewing your blood pressure regimen with your provider. Sometimes another class of medication, like a calcium channel blocker (e.g., amlodipine), may be a better fit if dryness is interfering with quality of life.

6. Acne and Anti-Acne Medications (e.g., isotretinoin)
Isotretinoin (commonly known as Accutane) drastically reduces oil production to treat severe acne, but it also dries out mucous membranes throughout the body, including the va**na. This effect is expected and typically temporary, but it can be quite uncomfortable.

If you’re on isotretinoin short-term, supportive care with va**nal moisturizers can help. If dryness is severe or persistent, your dermatologist may be able to lower the dose or explore alternative acne treatments depending on your skin type.

Your comfort matters. Let’s talk about it.

If you’ve started a new medication and noticed a change in your va**nal comfort, bring it up with your healthcare provider. It’s not an awkward or “too small” issue—we want you to feel comfortable in your body, every day. There are many ways to feel better without necessarily having to stop a medication that’s helping your overall health. There may be ways to adjust the dosage, switch to an alternative, or add a treatment to ease the dryness.

The most important thing is this: You deserve to feel heard and supported. Vaginal dryness isn’t just about intimacy—it can affect your relationships, self-esteem, and how you feel in your body every day. It’s a medical issue, and like all medical issues, it has solutions.

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

Cl****al Adhesions: Why It’s Worth Talking AboutIt’s not always easy to talk about discomfort “down there,” especially w...
06/08/2025

Cl****al Adhesions: Why It’s Worth Talking About

It’s not always easy to talk about discomfort “down there,” especially when it involves the cl****is—a part of the body that many women are told to ignore, or worse, feel shame about. But if something doesn’t feel right, or you’ve noticed changes in sensitivity or comfort in your cl****al area, you’re not alone—and it’s worth talking about. One condition that’s not widely discussed but can have a big impact on comfort and s*xual health is cl****al adhesions. Let’s walk through what that means, why it happens, and what you can do about it.

Cl****al adhesions occur when the skin of the cl****al hood—also called the prepuce—sticks to the g***s, which is the visible part of the cl****is. Normally, the hood moves freely over the g***s, protecting this sensitive area while still allowing for sensation. But sometimes, the hood becomes stuck, forming a sort of “seal” over the cl****is. This can lead to discomfort, reduced sensation during intimacy, or even pain.

Why does this happen?
There isn’t always a single clear answer. Cl****al adhesions can develop after inflammation or irritation. That could be from recurrent yeast or bacterial infections, chronic skin conditions like lichen sclerosus, or even friction from tight clothing or vigorous s*xual activity. Some women may be more prone to developing adhesions due to their anatomy, hormonal changes, or hygiene habits that disrupt the skin’s natural balance.

You might not even realize you have a cl****al adhesion right away. Some women first notice that something feels “off”—like decreased sensation during s*x or ma********on. Others may feel soreness, especially when the area is touched. Sometimes there’s a visible change, like the cl****is appearing smaller than usual or completely covered.

If any of this sounds familiar, know that you’re not overreacting. It’s important to trust your instincts and seek care. A gynecologist, especially one trained in pelvic and v***ar conditions, can examine the area gently and determine if an adhesion is present. The diagnosis is usually made during a physical exam—no fancy tests required.

The good news is that cl****al adhesions are treatable. Mild cases may improve with simple, noninvasive treatments like topical estrogen and testosterone, or steroid creams that help soften the tissue and reduce inflammation. In other cases, especially if the adhesion is more severe or causing pain, a minor in-office procedure can be done to gently release the tissue. It’s quick, and for many women, it provides immediate relief and improved sensation. In some cases, when adhesions are severe or completely covering the gland, the procedure is done in the operating room to provide a better pain control and optimal results.

Equally important is addressing any underlying causes. If a skin condition like lichen sclerosus is present, that needs to be managed carefully to prevent the adhesion from returning. And because this is such a delicate area, gentle hygiene is key. You don’t need to scrub or use harsh soaps—in fact, that can make things worse. Plain water or a mild, fragrance-free cleanser is usually enough. Make sure to retract your cl****al hood and clean underneath when you take a shower.

Talking about cl****al health can feel intimidating or even embarrassing, but you deserve to feel comfortable in your body. Just like any other part of your anatomy, your cl****is deserves care and attention—especially if something feels wrong. If you're experiencing symptoms or simply have questions, don’t hesitate to bring it up with a trusted healthcare provider. Your s*xual health is part of your overall well-being. You’re not being “dramatic,” “dirty,” or “too sensitive” by paying attention to this area of your body. You’re being proactive and informed—and that’s something to be proud of.

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

Wondering why your urogynecologist recommended a v***ar biopsy? It's probably because there's something down there that ...
06/01/2025

Wondering why your urogynecologist recommended a v***ar biopsy? It's probably because there's something down there that doesn't look quite right. So let's go over everything you need to know about getting a biopsy done—from what they are and why they're done, to what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Watch now! https://vist.ly/3n5sybi

Pelvic Floor vs. Pelvic Girdle: What’s the Difference If you've ever Googled your pelvic symptoms and come across the te...
05/25/2025

Pelvic Floor vs. Pelvic Girdle: What’s the Difference

If you've ever Googled your pelvic symptoms and come across the terms pelvic floor and pelvic girdle, you might have wondered—what’s the difference? And does it really matter? The answer is yes, it does matter—and understanding the difference can be the key to finding the right kind of help if you're dealing with pain, pressure, instability, or other symptoms in your pelvic area.

Let’s break it down in simple, clear terms. Think of your pelvic area as the foundation of your body’s core. It’s not just one structure—it’s a complex, layered system of bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues that work together to support your organs, stabilize your body, and help you move through daily life.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that sit like a hammock at the bottom of your pelvis. These muscles support your bladder, uterus, va**na, and re**um. They’re responsible for keeping you dry when you laugh, sneeze, or exercise, for helping with bowel movements, and for playing an important role in s*xual function. When the pelvic floor muscles are too weak or too tight—or not working in coordination—you may experience symptoms like urinary leakage, pelvic heaviness, constipation, or pain during s*x. These muscles are deeply internal and are often affected by things like pregnancy, childbirth, aging, hormonal shifts, or surgery.

The pelvic girdle, on the other hand, is a bony structure made up of your two hip bones, sacrum, and coccyx. It connects your spine to your legs and provides the framework for the rest of your pelvic anatomy. The joints of the pelvic girdle—particularly the sacroiliac joints in the back and the p***c symphysis in the front—are designed to provide both stability and flexibility, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. Pain in this area is often felt in the lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin, and it can make walking, standing, or even turning over in bed uncomfortable. This is often referred to as pelvic girdle pain and tends to worsen with physical activity or uneven movement, like going up stairs or standing on one leg.

While these structures are different, they work closely together—and problems in one area can affect the other. For example, if your pelvic girdle is unstable after pregnancy or due to joint hypermobility, your pelvic floor muscles may tighten up to try to compensate. That extra tension can lead to pain, bladder issues, or difficulty relaxing during intimacy. On the flip side, a weak or dysfunctional pelvic floor can create imbalances that put extra strain on your lower back and hips. It’s also worth knowing that many women have symptoms in both areas, especially during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Hormonal changes, postural shifts, and the physical demands of carrying and delivering a baby can stretch and strain both the muscles and the joints of the pelvic region. That’s why it’s important not to ignore lingering discomfort or brush it off as just part of motherhood.

Understanding whether your symptoms are coming from the pelvic floor, the pelvic girdle, or both is important, because the treatments are different. The good news is, with the right diagnosis and support, you can absolutely feel better. Pelvic floor issues are best addressed with pelvic floor physical therapy, which focuses on strengthening or relaxing the deep muscles inside your pelvis. A trained therapist can help retrain your body to improve bladder and bowel control, reduce pain, and support your overall function. Pelvic girdle pain, especially when related to pregnancy, often responds well to manual therapy, core stabilization, and exercises that improve joint alignment and control. Sometimes, supportive belts or braces can help relieve pain temporarily while you work on underlying stability.

If you’re experiencing any pelvic pain, bladder or bowel issues, or pressure or instability in your hips or low back, it’s okay to speak up. Whether your symptoms are new or you’ve been living with them for years, you deserve answers—and a treatment plan that addresses the real root of the issue. A urogynecologist or pelvic health specialist can help you figure out whether the pelvic floor, the pelvic girdle, or both need attention, and guide you toward therapies that truly make a difference.

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

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421 N Rodeo Drive, Penthouse 1
Beverly Hills, CA
90210

Website

https://linktr.ee/drurogyn

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