I Found a Pelvic Floor Therapist for My Vagina

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Did you know that pelvic floor therapists exist? That’s right—there are physical therapists who specialize in vaginal health! They can help with issues like incontinence, enhance sexual experiences, and improve pelvic stability after childbirth. So why isn’t this common knowledge?

I can’t be the only one who was oblivious to this. After having children, I thought I was destined to deal with incontinence forever. I also accepted that I wouldn’t feel as connected with my husband during intimacy as I did before my little ones came along. However, after a sneezing mishap that resulted in me shattering my phone while instinctively clamping my legs together, a doctor friend informed me that my situation could be improved. Wait, I’m not doomed for life?

For nearly a decade, I dealt with this issue, constantly needing to cross my legs during sneezes. I carried spare underwear in my bag and used products like bladder supports and pads. But I grew tired of being unable to control such a basic bodily function.

Finally, I decided to confront my fears and see a urologist to understand what was going on. I chose a urologist first since a referral is often needed for a pelvic floor therapist. I was diagnosed with a weakened bladder neck, which connects the bladder to the urethra—essentially a “wonky” bladder neck, along with some possible nerve damage. Thanks a lot, kids.

After discussing the potential for surgery to fix my bladder neck, the urologist referred me to a pelvic health therapist. I was excited but also nervous about what to expect during my appointments. Dr. Lisa Simmons, a pelvic health physical therapist, explained that these specialists help restore function, reduce pain, and improve coordination and strength in the pelvic floor. And it’s not just for moms dealing with incontinence or women experiencing pain during sex; pelvic health therapy can benefit anyone, regardless of gender or age, since we all have pelvic floor muscles. It can even assist with chronic lower back pain, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. Who knew?

You might be thinking, “Just do Kegels.” However, Dr. Simmons clarified that everyone needs to be assessed to determine the specific causes of their conditions. Kegels might not be the best solution for everyone. Depending on one’s needs, treatment may include pelvic floor biofeedback, muscle coordination training, breathing exercises, behavioral retraining, progressive loading exercises, and pelvic floor relaxation techniques.

My Experience So Far

So, what has my experience been like? I’m three weeks and two appointments into therapy for my vagina. It’s a bit of an unusual experience, akin to having regular check-ups with a hands-on OB-GYN. Although my therapist is professional and makes an effort to put me at ease, it does take some adjustment. Still, I’m committed to regaining as much function as possible. It turns out that Kegel exercises are part of my treatment plan.

If this information feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Dr. Simmons points out that pelvic floor therapy is often underutilized, and access to providers can be limited. She believes that women deserve answers and treatments for their health concerns, especially for sensitive topics like sexual health and bladder issues. To share her knowledge, she authored a book titled “Healing Without Pain: A Self-Care Guide to Sexual Wellness,” making her techniques accessible to everyone.

I’ve come to realize that the vulva, vagina, and all related structures are anatomical just like your shoulder or knee. If you experience pain, discomfort, or loss of function, it’s essential to get them examined and treated. Ultimately, dedicating a little discomfort each week to tackle a chronic issue affecting your daily life is a worthwhile trade-off. So, I recommend finding a pelvic health therapist near you and starting your own journey toward a healthier, drier, and potentially more fulfilling sexual life.

Additional Resources

If you’re interested in more information, be sure to check out this post on home insemination and learn about the Cryobaby Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit Combo, which is an excellent resource for those exploring home insemination options. For further guidance, consider looking into intrauterine insemination, a fantastic resource for pregnancy and home insemination.

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Summary:

Pelvic floor therapists can significantly improve vaginal health issues such as incontinence and discomfort during sex. Understanding the benefits of pelvic health therapy is crucial for all genders and ages. Seeking treatment can help restore function and enhance quality of life.