Lymphatic System and Pelvic Congestion

Claudia N. Benavides PT, BSc PT, DPT

What is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system is a network of organs (bone marrow, spleen, thymus, lymph nodes, and tonsils), vessels, and tissues, that facilitates the removal of excess interstitial fluid (lymph) from the body's tissues and its return to the bloodstream. This system is the body's lymphatic-based waste-management system. It plays an important role in the regulation of fluid in and around the cells of the body, the transport of fats, and contains cells that help fight against infection and cancer in the body.

How can the lymphatic system affect my pelvic floor?

The lymphatic pelvic floor is a complex network of muscles, fascia, and connective tissues that runs along the pelvic region. This system plays an important role in pelvic health and function, its ability to cleanse the body's tissues and organs, and its support for the pelvis are crucial to our overall health. Lymphatics in the pelvis drain lymph from the pelvic organs, including the bladder, prostate, uterus, and vagina.

Left: male assigned at birth, Right: female assigned at birth

“Image used with permission from Pelvic Guru®, LLC www.pelvicglobal.com

When the lymphatic system isn’t able to effectively transport fluid around the body, it can lead to a buildup of fluid in the pelvic region. This is known as pelvic floor dysfunction, which is a term used to describe a variety of disorders related to the support and function of the pelvic region. Common symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction can include pelvic pain, urinary or fecal incontinence, and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic floor dysfunction can also be caused by a variety of factors, including pelvic trauma, certain neurological disorders, and chronic pelvic infections.

Additionally, pelvic floor dysfunction can be a result of lymphatic drainage disruption that occurs when the lymphatic pelvic floor contracts, leading to decreased drainage from the pelvic floor and increased pressure in the pelvis. This pressure on the pelvic floor causes it to weaken over time. It can also lead to a variety of conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine and bladder prolapse, and incontinence. An impaired lymphatic system can also lead to a buildup of toxins which may further weaken the tissues of the pelvic floor. When these tissues are weakened, they can’t provide as much support for the bladder or uterus, leading to problems with bladder or bowel control. Finally, poor lymphatic drainage can create a state of chronic inflammation. This inflammation can irritate the muscles of the pelvic floor and trigger pain and spasms.

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and as Pelvic Health Physiotherapists we assess and treat it in our clinic. One specific type of pelvic floor dysfunction is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome, characterized by chronic, persistent pelvic pain in the absence of any identifiable cause. The pain typically worsens over time and can disrupt a person’s daily functioning. Pelvic Congestion Syndrome occurs when the veins in the pelvic region become dilated and enlarged due to increased pressure. This surge of pressure does not allow for the normal, rhythmic draining of blood from the pelvic organs and often results in increased pain. It often causes other unpleasant symptoms such as bloating, urgency to urinate, painful intercourse, and aching in the lower abdomen or rectum.

Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged, weak, and twisted, and occur when blood pools in them rather than properly flowing back to the heart. This can happen for a variety of reasons and is usually caused by problems with the valves in the veins, which exist to prevent backward flow. When these valves don’t work properly, the blood pools and causes the veins to swell and become varicose. As a result, these veins can become taxed and may push against surrounding organs in the pelvis, causing pain.

How to self-help with pelvic congestion syndrome?

A Pelvic Health Physiotherapist will be able to assess and prescribe the proper exercises for your condition. As you wait for your pelvic floor assessment you can practice a simple exercise: diaphragmatic breathing. Through a series of rhythmic, deep diaphragmatic breaths, diaphragmatic breathing activates the system's natural functions, helping to improve the body's self-cleaning abilities.

The diaphragm is a large, dome-shaped muscle that forms the base of the ribcage. When the diaphragm contracts, it causes the ribcage to move down. At the same time, the lungs become filled with air, allowing oxygen to enter the body.  The diaphragm is used to draw air slowly and

deeply into the lungs, allowing the body to stimulate the lymphatic system during inhalation. When you practice diaphragmatic breathing, during the inhalation phase (breathe in) you should feel a wave of relaxation throughout the body. This relaxation encourages the body to release toxins and cellular wastes, making it easier for the lymphatic system to process and eliminate them. As the air is released, the toxins and other metabolic wastes are expelled from the body. This process continues through the exhalation phase (breathe out) with the lungs actively pushing air out through pursed lips. In addition to stimulating the lymphatic, diaphragmatic breathing can result in a number of other beneficial effects. These include improved cardiovascular health, increased energy levels, and reduced stress and anxiety. This technique can also be used to help unwind at the end of a long day, and even to induce restful sleep.

Image used with permission from Pelvic Guru®, LLC www.pelvicglobal.com

The lymphatic system is a fundamental component of the immune system, helping to protect the body from disease and infection. Through the practice of diaphragmatic breathing, the body and mind can benefit from stronger immunity and improved overall wellness.

Pro-Tip

To experience the most from your exercise continue reading for a pro tip from a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist. Diaphragmatic breathing involves taking deep, slow breaths to slow your heart rate and bring oxygen to tense muscles. You can practice this technique regularly to control your Pelvic Congestion symptoms. Lifting your legs up as you practice your diaphragmatic breathing can increase the blood flow to the pelvic area and help to relieve the pressure your veins are under. This is because gravity will help to move the blood towards your chest and help the veins to reduce in size. This can cause less pain to you. Additionally, it can help to reduce any discomfort or cramping you may experience. This can be done by either sitting or lying down and putting some pillows or cushions under your legs. By elevating your legs with a wall, will provide additional support and reduce the need to use pillows and cushions. This is especially beneficial if you experience pain when lying down. By elevating your legs against your wall, you can reduce stress on your pelvic veins and improve the flow of blood from your legs to your upper body.

What Can Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Do?

It’s important to recognize signs and symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction and address them promptly to prevent long-term complications. Lifestyle modifications, Pelvic Health Physiotherapy, and in more serious cases, medical treatment can help address the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction.

If you are experiencing pelvic floor and lower abdominal symptoms and have questions contact us and book a Pelvic Health Physiotherapy assessment.

References:

Breathing and the Pelvic Floor,  Aila Agustin, Reg. Kin

https://www.proactiveph.com/blog/breathing-and-the-pelvic-floor/

Level 1: The Physical Therapy Approach to Female and Male Urinary Incontinence. Pelvic Health Solutions. 2019.

Pelvic Congestion, Emily Quinn PT,

https://www.proactiveph.com/blog/what-is-pelvic-congestion-syndrome/