Pelvic Steaming: Not a Trend. Not a Fad.

Women have been using the technology of pelvic steaming (aka vaginal steaming) for centuries. Particularly for the time after childbirth and to aid in restoring balance to the womb and pelvic area. But simply because a practice has been used for centuries does not automatically mean it is effective. Still, women the world over continue to use these practices to support their health because they are tethered to a long tradition of women’s wisdom and because they work.

There is much negative media around this topic yet we see from those who actually practice it that there are many benefits. Just as western medicine did not provide evidence of efficacy in the areas of yoga and meditation until fairly recently, these practices have stood the test of time because they work. Pelvic steaming is no different.

As this is a rapidly growing area of holistic health, sound information is key to good results. I received my training from Keli Garza who is leading the movement to professionalize pelvic steaming in the United States. Her courses are the only ones approved by the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council and the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. With a background in quantitative research, she spearheaded a small-scale study on vaginal steaming for postpartum mothers. Admittedly, true statistics cannot be extrapolated from this small data set, yet we can see a compelling case being made for steaming as part of a postpartum recovery plan. A case that has been made for thousands of years and starting to be embraced by a small portion of gynecologists.

The Subtle Effects of Pelvic Steaming

Pelvic steaming, along with other self-care practices, may have the ability to produce positive physiological effects through subtle effects on the spirit, emotions, and psyche. Among other benefits, people report feelings of wellbeing during and after steaming and it is thought that this is a result of increase circulation to the reproductive organs which travels up the vagus nerve to the brain, releasing oxytocin (the love hormone). Secretion of this hormone can help relieve tension and held emotions in the root.

The Personal is Political

Ground Work Ayurveda + Wellness is about helping women and people who menstruate, birth babies, and are in the peri/post menopausal stage to re-establish and maintain a healthy relationship with their bodies. Through this gentle and loving practice, pelvic steaming can be a way to celebrate your body, release trauma, soften tension and allow for a deeper understanding of your past, present, and how you move into the future. There is an opportunity in this practice to nourish our bodies and spirits so that we may become more connected to ourselves, our families, communities and the planet.

Are you Steam Curious?

You will find information on the internet about steaming and recommended herbs but it is advised to seek out someone trained in the practice or from a lineage that has utilized this work. Like any modality, when used correctly, it can facilitate beneficial shifts in the body/mind. Though the herbs used in pelvic steaming are exceedingly gentle, used incorrectly, they may exacerbate issues you want to resolve.