Treating Painful Sex fromVaginismus
Nearly 75% of women experience painful sex at some point. Pain during intercourse (“dyspareunia”) can seriously impact a woman’s sex life, relationships, emotional intimacy, confidence and quality of life. Many women do not seek treatment out of embarrassment. Others become frustrated by unsympathetic healthcare providers who do not understand their problem and do not offer an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
Vaginismus is one medical condition characterized by pain during intercourse. It can last for years if not properly treated – but the good news is that vaginismus is a treatable condition. However, receiving a correct diagnosis and treatment is the key to finding rapid and lasting relief – and being able to enjoy sexual intimacy again..
What is Vaginismus?
Vaginismus is characterized by painful contraction (“spasms”) of the vagina in response to any type of physical contact or pressure, especially during sexual intercourse.
Some common symptoms of vaginismus include:
- Burning or stinging with tightness during sex
- Difficult or impossible penetration
- Pain during entry or insertion of penis
- Difficulty inserting tampons
- Pain during a pelvic gynecological exam
- Spasms in other body muscles (legs, back, etc.)
- Difficulty breathing during intercourse
- Avoidance of sex due to pain
Additionally, the ongoing sexual discomfort or pain of Vaginismus may also follow childbirth, yeast infection, urinary tract infection (UTI), an STDs, IC, hysterectomy, cancer, rape, menopause, or other pelvic illnesses or traumas.
Vaginismus can be triggered by physical events as well as non-physical emotions (such as anxiety), that cause the vaginal muscles to contract. It is important that women understand that vaginismus is not their fault. It is a medical condition, that can be treated by a pelvic floor therapist with pelvic floor therapy.
Diagnosing Vaginismus (Painful Sex)
Unfortunately, it is extremely common for physicians to dismiss the symptoms of vaginismus. Because painful sex is very common, some doctors simply tell women “it’s normal” to have painful intercourse. Other medical professionals may erroneously tell women to “just relax” or “have a glass of wine.”
Many women suffer far too long with Vaginismus. But the good new is that medical awareness of pelvic conditions, such as Vaginismus, has advanced tremendously. The painful sex of Vaginismus does not have to last years. Vaginismus is a treatable condition.
Our physical therapists have been specifically trained to help diagnose and treat pelvic floor pain during sex, and sexual dysfunctions. They will take the time needed to listen to your concerns, conduct a thorough evaluation and come up with a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan for your Vaginismus pelvic pain.
Toledo Area Painful Sex Specialists
If you are suffering from any type of pain during intercourse – and have been diagnosed or are yet to be diagnosed – our certified pelvic floor physical therapists are here to help.
Expert physical therapist Karen Liberi MS MPT WCS, has advanced board certification in pelvic floor physical therapy. She has helped hundreds of men and women in Perrysburg, Toledo, Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan get rid of pelvic pain, eliminate urinary & bowel issues, and remedy sexual problems with pelvic floor physical therapy.
