What is Pelvic Steaming?

Pelvic steaming is often referred to as Yoni Steaming however there is evidence to suggest that this practise is and can be beneficial for all bodies, regardless of genitals, depending on the symptoms. Using the terms “Yoni” or “Vaginal” steaming also implies that the steam is limited to accessing these areas only, which is untrue as steam penetrates the whole pelvic area. Thus making the term “Pelvic Steaming” much more accurate when referring to this practise.

Pelvic steaming is the age-old practise of kneeling or sitting over steam (often infused with medicinal herbs) to assist the organs in the pelvic bowl. More often than not people with uteruses are drawn to this practise as it can assist the monthly womb cleanse / menstruation. Historically, pelvic steaming is most widely used across many cultures during the postpartum period. There is also evidence that steaming has been found on every continent across the globe (Check out @steamychick for her world map identifying locations steaming has been found).

Upon initial research I was unable to find much evidence of steaming being used here in Aotearoa, New Zealand until quite recently. I never gave up on my search though and have now identified the use of steaming in several Rongoā (Māori Medicine) texts. As with most other Indigenous cultures around the world is seems that steaming was most commonly used after childbirth to aid both internal and external healing.

Aside from post-birth, pelvic steaming has many uses and benefits. The second and perhaps most common use would be in assisting the bodies monthly uterine cleanse. There are a few myths surrounding pelvic steaming, one suggests that it is not necessary because the uterus is self-cleansing. While this is true to a extent, it is not entirely correct. Yes, the uterus is a self-cleansing organ. Much like most other organs in the body. However, generally speaking, the uterus is only “self-cleansing” when it is functioning optimally, and often, its not. We can observe this is countless people who are suffering from painful periods, long periods, heavy bleeding and a myriad of other issues surrounding the menstrual cycle. The issue with this is thats its not normal for a period to be debilitating. It may be extremely common in 2021, but it is not normal. Sadly, many people suffer for years and years without ever getting to the bottom of why this is happening to them. Of course there are many reasons and often a holistic approach is required to truly get to the bottom of these issues.

So when it comes to assisting the uterus to function at an optimal level, we know that steaming can and does help. Steaming is an incredibly gentle, non-invasive option that is perfect for many people. It is so important that we invest in further research around pelvic steaming to expand our understanding of the benefits of steaming. Keli Garza of Steamy Chick has been a pioneer in the exploration of steaming and trains people all over the world in the art of steam facilitation.

Here at Rose Womb Steaming we are committed to supporting our clients to get the most out of their steaming practise, we want to ensure that people are steaming correctly and receiving the benefits with every steam. If you are curious to learn more about steaming, or you simply want to connect with us, follow along on our journey over at @rosewombsteaming on Instagram.

Toyah ~ Co-founder Rose Womb Steaming