Do you ever feel like you are "hitting a wall" when you try to insert something into your vagina? Whether it be with sexual intercourse, a tampon, or pap smear or pelvic ultrasound, this condition is known as vaginismus. An estimated 10% of women suffer with vaginismus. This is a condition that causes the vaginal muscles to automatically tighten in anticipation of vaginal penetration. This can be frustrating and painful. However, there are many treatment options to help you regain control, comfort, and pleasure with pelvic floor physical therapy.
What is pelvic floor physical therapy?
Pelvic floor physical therapy involves assessment and treatment of the pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor muscles can spasm or tighten, making penetration painful. Pelvic floor physical therapy utilizes several treatment techniques, including soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, pelvic floor muscle relaxation and stretching, and diaphragmatic breathing to relax and lengthen the pelvic floor. Treatment may also include use to vaginal dilators to gradually stretch open the vaginal opening.
Bottom line: Pelvic floor physical therapy will help with vaginismus. If you've never heard of pelvic floor physical therapy before, or your doctor has never mentioned it, give it a try. I've had so many clients try physical therapy for even just a few visits, and notice significant improvement, and most importantly, have hope.
Does pelvic floor physical therapy hurt?
No. We want your therapy experience to be one that is positive, encouraging and helping you reach your goals. Some techniques that help relax and lengthen the pelvic floor muscles may cause mild discomfort, like a hamstring stretch, but nothing should be painful.
How long will it take for me to recover?
It really depends. However, most of my patients notice full resolution of their symptoms and meet their goals within 6-8 visits, sometimes quicker!
Check out my blog post about 4 restorative yoga poses to help relax your pelvic floor!
Ready to start your pelvic floor physical therapy journey? Be pain-free with intercourse? Book now below!
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