Those two small indentations that you sometimes see on the lower back, just above the buttocks and on either side of the spine, are not actually “holes.” These symmetrical skin depressions are commonly known as back dimples, dimples of Venus (in women) or dimples of Apollo (in men). These dimples are a normal anatomical variation present in some people from birth.
What Causes Them?
They form due to a short ligament connecting the skin to the underlying bone structure, specifically the posterior superior iliac spine (the bony points on the back of the pelvis where the sacrum meets the ilium). This tethering pulls the skin inward slightly, creating visible dimples when there is less subcutaneous fat covering the area.
In short:
- They are genetic and appear due to normal anatomy and body composition.
- They become more noticeable in people with lower body fat in that region or who have toned muscles, but anyone can have them regardless of fitness level.
- They are not openings, pores, or holes in the skin or bone — just surface indentations.
Common Myths vs. Reality
Social media often spreads exaggerated claims about these dimples:
- Myth: They indicate “good circulation,” “easy orgasms,” “superior fertility,” “perfect health,” or “better sex.”
- Truth: Medical experts (including orthopedic surgeons and studies) confirm there is no proven medical significance or health benefit tied to having them. They do not reliably predict fertility, sexual performance, or overall wellness.
One small 2023 study noted that people with dimples of Venus may have slightly different spinopelvic alignment (a higher pelvic incidence angle and more sagittally oriented facet joints), but this is an anatomical variation with no clear link to pain or superior health.
A single central dimple higher up (a sacral dimple) is different and can occasionally warrant checking in infants if it is deep or associated with other signs, as it may rarely link to spinal issues. The paired lower-back dimples discussed here are harmless.
Are They Attractive?
Yes, culturally speaking, they have been associated with beauty since ancient times (hence the name, which comes from Venus, the Roman goddess of love). Many people find them aesthetically pleasing because they accentuate the curve of the lower back and buttocks. However, beauty standards are subjective, and many attractive people do not have them.
Can You “Get” Them?
- You cannot create true dimples of Venus through exercise alone — they are largely genetic.
- Losing excess fat in the lower back area or building glute/lower-back muscle tone can make existing dimples more visible, but if you weren’t born with the underlying ligament structure, they won’t appear.
Bottom Line
The “two holes” in the lower back are simply dimples of Venus/Apollo — a harmless, natural feature caused by ligaments tethering skin to the pelvis. They have no special medical powers or hidden dangers. They are just one of the many small variations in human anatomy that some people have and others don’t.
If you have them, enjoy their appearance if you like — or don’t think twice about them. However, if you notice a deep dimple, unusual pain, or other symptoms in that area, consult a doctor, as this could warrant further evaluation (though most cases are benign).
