You may have noticed two small, symmetrical indentations on the lower back of some people—right above the buttocks, where the spine meets the hips. These charming little marks are often called “Dimples of Venus” (or “Venus holes”), and they’ve sparked curiosity, myths, and admiration for centuries. But what do they actually mean? Are they rare? Do they signal good health or genetics? Let’s separate fact from fiction and explore the real story behind these lower-back dimples.
What Are Lower Back Dimples?
Lower back dimples are natural indentations that appear where the pelvis and spine connect, specifically over the posterior superior iliac spine. They are present from birth and are not something you develop later in life through exercise or posture.
In men, they’re sometimes called “Dimples of Apollo,” while in women they’re more commonly known as Dimples of Venus, named after Venus, the Roman goddess of beauty. The association with beauty is ancient—these dimples were admired in classical art and sculpture long before modern anatomy explained them.
Why Do Some People Have Them?
The primary reason is genetics. These dimples form when the skin is naturally tethered to underlying ligaments and bone, creating small depressions. Whether or not you have them depends on:
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Bone structure
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Ligament placement
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Genetic inheritance
They are not caused by weight, although they may appear more visible in people with lower body fat. Importantly, their presence—or absence—says nothing about your fitness level, lifestyle, or habits.
Are They Rare?
Lower back dimples are not extremely rare, but not everyone has them either. Estimates vary, but they appear more commonly in women than men. Because they’re subtle and often hidden by clothing, many people don’t even realize they have them until someone points them out.
Do They Indicate Good Health?
This is where myths often take over. You may have heard claims that these dimples mean:
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Better blood circulation
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Higher fertility
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Stronger core muscles
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Better sexual health
While these ideas are popular online, there is no solid scientific evidence supporting most of them.
However, one claim does have a small anatomical basis: the area where these dimples appear typically has good blood supply and nerve pathways, simply because of its location near the pelvis. That said, this applies to everyone—not just people with visible dimples.
So while they are harmless and normal, they are not a medical indicator of superior health.
Can You Get Them Through Exercise?
Short answer: no.
You cannot create true Dimples of Venus through workouts, weight loss, or posture correction. Exercise can change muscle tone and fat distribution, which might make existing dimples more noticeable, but it won’t create them if your anatomy doesn’t support it.
Any product, routine, or “hack” claiming to give you lower back dimples is misleading.
Are They Linked to Pain or Spine Problems?
No. Lower back dimples are not associated with back pain, spinal issues, or nerve problems. They are purely a surface anatomical feature.
That said, don’t confuse them with sacral dimples, which appear lower on the back (near the tailbone) and are usually seen in infants. Sacral dimples can, in rare cases, be associated with spinal conditions and should be evaluated by a doctor. Dimples of Venus, however, are higher up and completely benign.
Why Are They Considered Attractive?
Cultural perception plays a big role here. In many societies, lower back dimples are associated with:
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Symmetry
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Youth
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Physical balance
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Classical beauty standards
Because they subtly accentuate the natural curve of the lower back, they’ve been celebrated in art, fashion, and modern media. But attractiveness is subjective—having or not having these dimples does not define beauty.
Should You Be Concerned If You Don’t Have Them?
Absolutely not.
Most people do not have visible lower back dimples, and that is completely normal. Their absence does not indicate poor health, weak bones, or anything negative. Human bodies vary widely, and these dimples are simply one of many harmless variations.
The Bottom Line
If you have two small dimples on your lower back, here’s the truth:
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✔ They are genetic
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✔ They are harmless
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✔ They are not a health diagnosis
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✔ They cannot be created or removed naturally
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✔ They are simply a natural anatomical feature
Enjoy them if you have them, and don’t worry if you don’t. Bodies come in countless shapes and details, and lower back dimples are just one small—yet fascinating—example of human diversity.
