Your Pelvic Floor and Pain with Sex
Do you have pelvic floor pain during sex? If you experience pain with sex, also known as dyspareunia, are you curious if that’s normal, and if not, what can help?
One in five women will experience pain with sex or pain in the pelvic region at some point in their lifetime. Pelvic floor pain during sex is common, but NOT normal. Pelvic floor pain with sex is a condition that pelvic floor physical therapy can treat!
What could be causing dyspareunia?
Dyspareunia refers to persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during, or after sexual intercourse.
Possible causes of dyspareunia are:
-Pelvic floor muscle tension
-Postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction
-Hormonal changes
-Other medical conditions (endometriosis, lichens sclerosis, vulvodynia, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, etc.)
How can dyspareunia be relieved?
1. Diaphragmatic breathing:
Sit or lie down in a comfortable and relaxed position. You can place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen to help you feel the movement.
Breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose. As you inhale, your abdomen should rise, pushing against your hand that is resting on your stomach. Focus on allowing your abdomen, rather than your chest, to expand as you inhale. Imagine filling your lungs from the bottom up.
Exhale slowly and completely through your mouth or nose, focusing on a controlled release of air. Feel your abdomen fall as you exhale.
2. Use lubrication!
Lubrications helps increase moisture, which helps decrease friction and tearing during intercourse. Water based lubricants are generally more tolerated, so try Slippery Stuff or Good Clean Love!
3. Try different positions:
Try sidelying, lying on your back with pillows supporting your knees relaxed open, or you on top. These positions may offer pelvic floor relaxation and feelings of increased control. Experiment with what feels best for you!
4. Use dilators or a pelvic wand:
The use of these tools can help desensitize vaginal tissues and encourage pelvic floor muscle relaxation.
5. Pelvic floor physical therapy!
Working with a pelvic floor physical therapist can help address your individual issues and concerns. The physical therapist can assess what is causing your pain during intercourse and develop an individualized plan of care.
If you are experiencing pain with sex, Pelvic Therapy and Fitness is here to help!
If you are ready to start your treatment journey, please call us at (847) 989-1491 or visit us at www.pelvictherapyfitness.com
With Love & Gratitude,
Pelvic Therapy and Fitness ❣️
