The Benefits of Yoga for Women’s Pelvic Health and Hormonal Balance
For thousands of years, people have been reaping the benefits of yoga. From downward dog to lotus position and a myriad of other poses, yoga improves balance, strength, and flexibility, helps manage stress, and promotes mental well-being. However, when it comes to yoga, many women are looking for other positive results.
Today, some studies and expert opinions suggest yoga can improve women’s pelvic health and hormonal balance. Could this be the perfect combination of physical, hormonal, and emotional therapy? While some say the topic requires more research, yoga remains a beneficial practice regardless.
Does Yoga Help in Hormonal Imbalance?
A 2025 research review published in the International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research says compelling evidence from an array of studies points toward yoga improving hormonal regulation. It looks at different aspects of yoga, such as poses, breath control, and mediation, and examines what parts they play in terms of physiological changes in the body that can have an impact on hormonal health.
The study concludes that yoga can significantly contribute to the regulation of endocrine activities. Since it provides relaxation and mindfulness, yoga can potentially decrease the levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, which promotes better hormonal balance. Additionally, it cites research that shows yoga can possibly benefit reproductive hormones, insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic health.
Is Yoga Good for the Pelvis?
Many support the idea that yoga practice likely strengthens and improves the health of the female pelvic floor. This area of the body consists of a group of muscles and ligaments, which resemble a sling, located at the pelvis’s base. They help support the pelvic organs: the uterus, rectum, and bladder. Additionally, the pelvic floor provides urination and voiding control and plays a part in proper sexual function.
A study examining the effect of yoga and pelvic floor muscle exercise on sexual function and sexual self-esteem delivers encouraging results. It states that reproductive-age women who use yoga as supplemental therapy for these issues will see improvement. These exercises not only bolster the sexual organs, but also the bladder, urinary tract, and anus muscles. The study also credits yoga practice to amping up blood flow in the genital area and reducing the unwanted release of urine when sneezing.
Other studies share similar evidence. For example, researchers looking at yoga’s therapeutic role in relieving pelvic floor dysfunction due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) say the practice may help alleviate pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, and sexual dysfunction.
Other Potential Benefits
You may be asking yourself: What happens if I do 30 minutes of yoga every day? Again, yoga’s centuries-old staying power exists for a reason. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, many respected healthcare organizations cite regular yoga practice as helpful in a variety of additional ways. The American Heart Association notes that yoga’s potential benefits may include managing depression and insomnia; improving heart health; and relieving chronic pain. Both Harvard Medical School and Johns Hopkins suggest yoga’s positive impact on cardiovascular health.
Ask Avant Gynecology How Yoga May Help You
At Avant Gynecology, we address and provide the full scope of gynecology services. Depending on the issue at hand, an Avant Gynecology provider can discuss the possible benefits of adding yoga to your treatment plan. To consult one of our expert physicians, schedule an appointment online.
