Bringing a baby into the world is a powerful and life-changing experience, but it’s also physically demanding. While many new parents expect changes in their pelvic floor, they’re often surprised to find that their tailbone (also known as the coccyx) becomes a source of lingering discomfort after delivery.
If you’re struggling with tailbone pain after childbirth, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about what’s normal, what might signal a deeper issue, and how pelvic floor physical therapy can help you heal.
How Childbirth Can Affect the Tailbone
The tailbone sits at the very bottom of your spine and is closely connected to pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. During a vaginal birth, the tailbone naturally moves backward to allow more space for the baby to pass through the birth canal. But sometimes, this movement can become traumatic to the coccyx.
Common types of tailbone trauma during childbirth include:
- Bruising from pressure during pushing
- Dislocation or shifting of the coccyx out of alignment
- Fractures (less common but possible, especially after a fast or difficult delivery)
Muscle and ligament strain around the coccyx - Pelvic floor dysfunction that leads to abnormal tension pulling on the tailbone
What’s Not Normal and May Need Further Help?
Persistent or worsening pain after 6- 8 weeks may indicate something more than just postpartum soreness. Here are signs to watch out for:
- Sharp or stabbing pain in the tailbone
- Pain that disrupts sitting, sleeping, or daily activities
- Sensations of pressure or “pulling” at the tailbone
- Pain during or after bowel movements
- Discomfort during intercourse
- Tailbone pain that came on suddenly after delivery
These could be signs of coccyx dysfunction, pelvic floor muscle imbalance, or even a misaligned tailbone all of which can benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy.
How Pelvic Floor PT Helps with Tailbone Trauma
Pelvic floor physical therapists are trained to evaluate and treat the entire pelvic region, including the coccyx. Here’s how we can help:
Gentle Hands-On Techniques: We use external and internal manual therapy to assess for tight or imbalanced muscles, restricted movement, or tailbone misalignment. If needed, gentle mobilization of the coccyx can help restore its proper position and reduce pain.
Postural Education & Sitting Support: We teach you how to adjust your sitting posture, recommend cushions for pressure relief (like a donut or wedge cushion), and help you move in ways that protect your healing tissues.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Training: Your coccyx connects to several pelvic floor muscles. Dysfunction in these muscles, whether tightness or weakness, can contribute to tailbone pain. We provide targeted exercises to restore balance and coordination.
Bowel & Bladder Coaching: Tailbone pain can make bowel movements difficult or painful. We help you develop healthy bathroom habits and techniques that ease strain and discomfort.
If you’re experiencing tailbone pain after childbirth, you deserve support and relief. Pelvic floor physical therapy offers a safe, effective, and holistic approach to healing so you can get back to feeling like yourself. Call to schedule a FREE discovery Call to talk with one of our skilled therapists to see how we can help you!
