Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders that affect collagen—the protein that provides strength and support throughout the body.
While many people associate EDS with joint hypermobility, it can also have a significant impact on pelvic health.
Understanding this connection is an important step towards finding the right support.
The pelvic floor relies on muscles, ligaments and connective tissues to support the bladder, bowel and pelvic organs.
In people with EDS, these connective tissues may be more flexible than usual, reducing the natural support they provide.
As a result, the pelvic floor muscles often have to work much harder to compensate.
Over time, this can contribute to a variety of pelvic health symptoms.
People with EDS may experience:
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and severity can vary considerably.
One common misconception is that everyone with EDS simply needs stronger muscles.
In reality, many people with EDS already have pelvic floor muscles that are working extremely hard.
Sometimes these muscles become overactive, tight or fatigued, which can contribute to pain and bladder symptoms.
Effective treatment begins with understanding how your pelvic floor is functioning rather than assuming weakness is the problem.
Managing pelvic health with EDS often involves more than pelvic floor exercises.
Treatment may include:
The aim is to improve function while respecting the unique challenges associated with connective tissue disorders.
Although EDS is a lifelong condition, many people can improve their symptoms and quality of life with the right support.
Specialist pelvic health physiotherapy focuses on helping you understand your body, improve confidence in movement and develop strategies that support long-term pelvic health.
If you’re living with EDS and experiencing pelvic floor symptoms, a personalised assessment can help identify the factors contributing to your symptoms and guide a treatment plan that’s tailored to you.
