Hi there! I’m Michelle – the heart behind The Happy Pelvis.
My journey with chronic pelvic pain began over 20 years ago and I know firsthand the frustration of being dismissed and misdiagnosed. I was around eight years old when a tailbone injury during a tobogganing accident triggered persistent pelvic pain, which worsened with the onset of my period at 13. What followed were years of painful cycles, chronic vulvar pain, frequent UTIs and yeast infections without any clear answers. Then, in October 2017, after a routine UTI, my health spiraled with severe, debilitating flares affecting my pelvis, bladder, urethra and vagina. Months of inconclusive tests and unanswered questions left me feeling isolated and scared.
Realizing that no one was going to advocate for me, I took matters into my own hands. I spent countless hours researching my symptoms, creating binders of information to discuss with doctors and connecting with support groups online. I found a safe haven in these communities, realizing that I wasn’t alone in my struggle – there were others out there facing the same pain and looking for answers.
In 2018, I started The Happy Pelvis as a creative outlet and a space to share my journey. Soon after, I connected with endometriosis excision specialists who listened, validated my experience, and finally gave me a diagnosis. Today, I live with Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome, Endometriosis, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. Since then, I’ve also been diagnosed with Lupus, Fibromyalgia and Tarlov Cysts.
If you live with pelvic pain…
Listen up…
Your pain is real.
Through The Happy Pelvis, I strive to be the resource I wish I’d had, offering support, education and encouragement to anyone navigating pelvic pain or chronic illness. I know how isolating it can feel to go through years of unexplained pain, only to be met with skepticism. My mission is to empower others to advocate for themselves, navigate the healthcare system and find providers who take their pain seriously.
As a peer health navigator, patient advisor with Ontario Health, and advocate for pelvic health, I am committed to creating a platform that educates and uplifts those in the pelvic pain community. I share relatable, evidence-backed content, personal insights, and practical guidance on The Happy Pelvis and Instagram. If something I share resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we can redefine what it means to live a full, joyful life despite chronic illness.
Remember, your pain is real, and you deserve answers. Keep searching for a doctor who understands. And always know you’re not alone in this. Let’s take on this journey together toward a happier, healthier pelvis.
Feel free to reach out: michelle@thehappypelvis.ca
Below are some links to blog posts that might interest you:
May is Pelvic Pain Awareness Month
8 Natural Tips For IC + PFD Flares
12 things to do instead of watching Netflix when you have a Chronic Illness
