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How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help Alleviate Vaginismus

  • Auria Pelvic Health
  • Mar 20
  • 5 min read

Vaginismus is a condition that affects many women, causing involuntary pelvic floor muscle contractions that make penetration painful or even impossible. This condition can be deeply distressing, often leading to emotional, relational, and physical challenges.


Fortunately, pelvic floor physical therapy (PT) offers an effective treatment option that can help alleviate the symptoms of vaginismus, restore function, and improve overall well-being.


In this blog post, we’ll explore how pelvic floor PT can help women experiencing vaginismus, providing relief from pain, regaining control over their bodies, and ultimately restoring intimacy.


What is Vaginismus?


Vaginismus is a condition where the muscles of the pelvic floor involuntarily contract or tighten when an attempt is made to insert anything into the vagina, such as a tampon, a penis during intercourse, or a gynecological instrument.


The degree of discomfort can vary, ranging from mild discomfort to extreme pain, and it can make sexual activity, medical exams, and even everyday tasks difficult or impossible.


While the exact cause of vaginismus is not always clear, it can be triggered by factors such as previous trauma (physical or emotional), fear, anxiety, or negative experiences related to sex or gynecological exams. The good news is that with the right support, women with vaginismus can find relief and regain control over their pelvic health.


The Role of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy


Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of therapy that targets the muscles of the pelvic floor, which support the organs of the bladder, uterus, and rectum. When these muscles are overly tight or dysfunctional, they can contribute to issues like vaginismus. Pelvic floor PT aims to identify and treat these underlying muscle issues, using techniques designed to relax, strengthen, and retrain the pelvic floor muscles.


For women dealing with vaginismus, pelvic floor PT is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment that can help alleviate symptoms, reduce pain, and improve pelvic function.


Here’s how pelvic floor PT can support women with vaginismus:


1. Relaxing the Pelvic Floor Muscles


One of the core approaches in pelvic floor PT for vaginismus is to address the involuntary muscle contractions that are the hallmark of the condition.


Physical therapists use gentle techniques, such as manual therapy or trigger point release, to help relax the pelvic floor muscles.


By reducing muscle tension and improving flexibility, pelvic floor PT helps the muscles become more responsive, allowing for a more relaxed state during sexual activity and other forms of penetration.


2. Desensitization and Gradual Exposure


A key part of treating vaginismus involves desensitization, a process where women are gradually exposed to vaginal penetration in a controlled, safe manner. This is often done with the guidance of a pelvic floor physical therapist.


The therapist may start with less invasive techniques, such as the use of dilators, to help the muscles become accustomed to gradual stretching. Over time, this gradual exposure helps reduce anxiety and fear surrounding penetration, making the pelvic floor muscles less likely to tighten involuntarily.


The therapist works with the patient to identify their comfort levels and tailor the exposure process to ensure that it’s both effective and emotionally supportive. This personalized, step-by-step approach is essential in overcoming the fear and discomfort associated with vaginismus.


3. Teaching Pelvic Floor Control


Pelvic floor PT helps patients learn how to gain control over their pelvic muscles.


By practicing pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises, women can strengthen the muscles when necessary and relax them when appropriate.


For women with vaginismus, learning how to consciously relax the pelvic muscles is a critical part of treatment. A physical therapist will guide patients through exercises that help build awareness and control over the pelvic muscles, making it easier to manage involuntary contractions.


Additionally, techniques like diaphragmatic breathing can be incorporated into therapy, teaching patients how to manage anxiety and relax their entire body. This combination of strengthening and relaxation techniques helps to create balance within the pelvic floor and restores normal muscle function.


4. Addressing the Emotional and Psychological Aspects


Vaginismus is often intertwined with psychological factors, such as anxiety, fear, or past trauma. Pelvic floor PT provides a safe, non-judgmental environment where women can discuss their concerns and emotions.


The therapist not only addresses the physical aspects of vaginismus but also provides emotional support to help manage any psychological barriers that may be contributing to the condition.


For example, a therapist might help patients explore the underlying causes of their anxiety or fear related to intimacy or pelvic exams.


By offering emotional validation and practical tools for stress management, pelvic floor PT helps women feel empowered to take control of their healing process.


5. Enhancing Communication and Intimacy


Vaginismus can take a toll on relationships, as it may create feelings of frustration, inadequacy, or a lack of intimacy between partners.


Pelvic floor PT often involves communication strategies that help couples navigate this challenge together. The therapist may offer guidance on how to communicate openly about the condition, set realistic goals, and work together to create a supportive environment for healing.


As women experience less pain and discomfort with pelvic floor PT, they often feel more confident in their ability to engage in intimate activities. Rebuilding a positive relationship with one’s body and one’s partner is a crucial aspect of recovery, and pelvic floor PT fosters this process in a compassionate and holistic manner.


6. Improving Sexual Health and Quality of Life


Pelvic floor physical therapy’s ultimate goal is to help women with vaginismus regain their sexual health and improve their overall quality of life. Many women who undergo pelvic floor PT report significant improvements in their ability to engage in pain-free intercourse and feel more at ease during intimate moments.


The techniques taught in PT can also be beneficial in enhancing sexual function and pleasure, giving women the confidence to engage in healthy, enjoyable intimacy.


Beyond sexual health, pelvic floor PT can also improve other aspects of life, such as reducing pelvic pain during physical activities, improving bladder function, and alleviating general pelvic discomfort.


 

Vaginismus is a complex condition, but with the right treatment, it is absolutely manageable. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a safe, effective, and non-invasive approach that can help women overcome the painful symptoms of vaginismus, improve pelvic function, and restore intimacy in their lives.


If you are experiencing vaginismus or struggling with painful intercourse, we encourage you to seek support from a skilled pelvic floor physical therapist.


At Auria Pelvic Health, our team of experts specializes in providing compassionate, personalized care to women dealing with vaginismus and other pelvic health concerns.


Contact us today to learn more about how pelvic floor therapy can help you regain control, alleviate pain, and improve your quality of life. You don’t have to suffer in silence—help is available.



Auria Pelvic Health

8929 S Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 412

Los Angeles, CA 90045

Phone: 213-699-3996


You deserve to feel your best—let us help you get there.




Article Written By Dr. Sasha Speer, DPT


 
 
 

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