Have you ever caught a glimpse of your lower back in the mirror and noticed those two small, symmetrical indentations just above your buttocks? Many people spot these subtle dips and wonder if they’re a sign of something special about their body or health. These features, often called “Venus dimples” or back dimples, spark curiosity because of myths linking them to beauty, fitness, or even enhanced vitality. While they might seem mysterious at first, understanding their true nature can bring reassurance and appreciation for your body’s natural variations. Keep reading to uncover the science behind these dimples—and one surprising connection that research has explored about your pelvic structure.

What Are These “Holes” in Your Lower Back?

These two small indentations are known as dimples of Venus, named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty. They appear as symmetrical dips on either side of your spine, right where your lower back meets your pelvis.

Medically, they’re also referred to as back dimples or lateral lumbar indentations. Unlike a single sacral dimple (which can sometimes warrant a check in newborns), these paired dimples are a normal cosmetic feature in adults.

Research from sources like Healthline and anatomical studies shows they’re created by a short ligament that tethers the skin to the posterior superior iliac spine—the bony points on your pelvis. This ligament pulls the skin inward, forming the visible dip over the sacroiliac joints.

But that’s not all…

Why Do Some People Have Them and Others Don’t?

The presence of Venus dimples is largely genetic. If your parents or close relatives have them, you’re more likely to as well. They’re more noticeable in people with lower body fat percentages because excess fat around the lower back and hips can smooth them out.

Studies indicate they’re fairly common, especially in women, though men can have them too (sometimes called “Apollo dimples”). A toned physique often makes them stand out more—think of how they accentuate the curve of a fit lower back in clothing like backless dresses or swimwear.

Here’s what influences their visibility:

• Genetics — The main factor; they’re inherited.
• Body composition — Leaner individuals see them more prominently.
• Muscle tone — Strong lower back and core muscles can enhance their appearance.
• Posture — Good alignment in the pelvis and spine may highlight them.

No, you can’t “create” them through exercise alone if genetics didn’t provide the ligament setup—but maintaining a healthy weight and strong core can make existing ones pop.

Do Venus Dimples Mean You’re Healthier or Fitter?

This is where myths often take over. Social media posts sometimes claim these dimples signal excellent circulation, superior health, or even evolutionary advantages like better pelvic stability for activities or reproduction.

The truth? Experts from places like the Indian Express and medical reviews emphasize there’s no strong scientific evidence linking Venus dimples directly to superior health, circulation, or fertility benefits. They’re primarily a cosmetic and anatomical variation.

However, one interesting study published in medical literature found that people with dimples of Venus tended to have a higher pelvic incidence angle (a measure of how your pelvis tilts) and more sagittally oriented facet joints in the spine. Researchers noted no connection to increased low back pain, though.

This suggests a subtle difference in spinopelvic anatomy—potentially a natural adaptation—but it doesn’t mean one is “better” or “healthier.” Many people without dimples enjoy excellent health and posture too.

The key takeaway: These dimples don’t diagnose or predict health issues. They’re just one of the many unique ways bodies vary.

How to Make Your Venus Dimples More Noticeable (If You Have Them)

If you already have these dimples and want them to stand out more, focus on habits that reduce surrounding fat and build tone—without extreme measures.

Here are practical, step-by-step tips:

1. Assess your body fat — Aim for a balanced, sustainable calorie deficit if needed (consult a nutritionist).
2. Strengthen your core and glutes — Exercises like planks, bird-dogs, and glute bridges target the area.
3. Improve posture — Stand tall with shoulders back to align your pelvis naturally.
4. Stay consistent with cardio — Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling help overall leanness.
5. Hydrate and eat nutrient-rich foods — Support skin elasticity and muscle definition.

Consistency over months yields the best results. Always listen to your body and avoid crash diets.

Common Myths vs. Facts About Venus Dimples

To clear up confusion, here’s a quick comparison:

• Myth: They guarantee better sex or orgasms.
  Fact: No reliable studies support this; claims stem from folklore.
• Myth: They’re a sure sign of low body fat and peak fitness.
  Fact: Visibility depends on fat distribution, but many fit people lack them due to genetics.
• Myth: They protect against back pain.
  Fact: Research shows no significant link to reduced or increased low back pain.
• Myth: You can surgically create them easily.
  Fact: Some cosmetic procedures exist (like fat-dissolving injections), but they’re not necessary for most.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Body’s Unique Features

Those two little “holes” in your lower back are simply a charming, harmless trait—often a nod to genetics and anatomy rather than a profound health marker. Whether you have prominent Venus dimples or none at all, what matters most is feeling strong, confident, and cared for in your body. Appreciating natural variations like these can boost self-acceptance and inspire healthy habits.