If you’ve been experiencing pain during sex, you’re not alone. Painful intercourse, or dyspareunia, affects many women, yet it remains a topic that is often avoided or ignored, even sometimes by healthcare professionals. This discomfort, ranging from mild to severe, can impact not just your physical health but your relationships and self-confidence as well. Thankfully, pelvic floor physical therapy is now widely recognized as an effective, non-invasive treatment for easing this pain.
What is Dyspareunia, and Why Does it Happen?
Dyspareunia refers to persistent or recurrent pain during or after intercourse, often caused by issues such as muscle tension, hormonal changes, previous injuries, abdominal or pelvic surgeries, or psychological factors. A significant contributor can be dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs). These muscles, which support the pelvic organs and play a role in sexual function, bladder control, and general comfort, can become overly tense or weak. This leads to a vicious cycle of pain and muscle tension that’s difficult to break. Pelvic floor therapy intervenes by helping to relax, strengthen, and retrain these muscles.
The Study: How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps Reduce Pain and Improve Sexual Health
A recent study with 64 women suffering from dyspareunia divided participants into two groups: one receiving pelvic floor therapy and the other on a waiting list. The therapy group underwent weekly sessions for three months, utilizing techniques like:
Manual Therapy:
Targeted massage techniques to alleviate muscle tension and improve blood flow. Trigger point release in the pelvic muscles is essential for reducing pain.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises (PFMEs):
Exercises designed to strengthen and relax the pelvic muscles, supported by daily at-home practice and progress tracking.
Measurements were taken at the beginning of treatment, after completion, and three months later, focusing on muscle strength, pain levels, and sexual health.
Results That Made a Real Difference
The women who participated in pelvic floor therapy reported substantial benefits:
Reduced Pain:
Pain scores decreased significantly, with some participants noting drops of up to 7 points on a 10-point scale, and improvements lasting even three months post-treatment.
Improved Pelvic Strength:
Increased strength and endurance in the pelvic muscles contributed to reduced pain and longer-lasting relief.
Enhanced Sexual Function:
Scores on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) improved markedly, indicating better arousal, satisfaction, and pain-free intercourse.
Why Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Works So Well
Pelvic floor therapy is effective because it addresses pain from multiple angles:
Releasing Muscle Tension:
Manual therapy reduces muscle tension, disrupting the pain cycle and promoting lasting relaxation.
Building Muscle Awareness:
Learning to engage and relax the pelvic muscles through guided techniques, such as digital biofeedback, empowers women with better control and less discomfort.
Strengthening Muscles:
Strengthened pelvic muscles lead to improved support and reduced fatigue, mitigating discomfort during intercourse.
Why Seek Specialized Care at Bonneville Pelvic Health
While many clinics may offer general pelvic floor therapy, finding a specialist like Dr. Bailee at Bonneville Pelvic Health is crucial for optimal results. Dr. Bailee is highly qualified and dedicated to providing trauma-informed, empathetic care, a cornerstone of successful treatment for conditions like dyspareunia. Her approach ensures a personalized treatment plan, focusing on each patient’s unique needs and comfort.
Thinking About Pelvic Floor Therapy? Here’s What to Expect
At Bonneville Pelvic Health, your therapy will involve:
Regular Sessions:
Weekly appointments are most effective, supported by at-home exercises for continuous improvement. However, everyone’s situation is different, and your plan of care can be adjusted to fit your unique needs.
Tailored Exercises:
You’ll learn exercises customized to your specific condition, seamlessly integrated into your daily routine.
Progress at Your Pace:
Dr. Bailee’s trauma-informed care prioritizes your comfort and open communication, ensuring you feel heard and supported throughout the process.
Why Pelvic Floor Therapy is a Powerful Option for Dyspareunia
Pelvic floor therapy can be life-changing for those dealing with dyspareunia. At Bonneville Pelvic Health, Dr. Bailee’s expertise and compassionate approach guide patients through a healing journey that addresses both the symptoms and root causes of pelvic pain. By reducing muscle tension, building strength, and fostering pelvic muscle awareness, you can regain comfort and confidence in your intimate life.
If pain during intercourse has been holding you back, please reach out today. With time, commitment, and professional guidance, you can overcome these challenges and embrace a future of pain-free, fulfilling intimacy.
Board-Certified Specialist in Women's Health Physical Therapy
Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner
Owner of Bonneville Pelvic Health
As an expert in pelvic floor rehabilitation, Dr. Bailee Burningham brings extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor disorders, including persistent pelvic pain. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
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