“It is also possible for sex to be painful when the pelvic floor muscles are overly tight because the tightness can cause difficulty with penetration and can lead to friction and pain .” - Dr. Sandy Shulca, DPT

Introduction:

Painful sex is an issue affecting many people, particularly those with a vagina. It can be caused by a variety of physical and psychological issues, ranging from endometriosis to the side effects of certain medications. It can also be caused by a weak or overly tight pelvic floor, which is often hard to diagnose or even recognize.

What Happens To The Vagina During Sex?

During sex, the vagina and pelvic floor muscles expand and contract to accommodate the movement of the penis. This can lead to increased blood flow and stimulation of the nerves in the area, which can result in lubrication, heightened pleasure and arousal. When an orgasm is achieved, the pelvic floor muscles contract and relax rhythmically, creating a sensation of pleasure in the body. However, sexual intercourse can become painful when the pelvic floor muscles have become weak or overly tight. So keep reading and I’ll tell you more about this!

What The Heck Are Pelvic Floor Muscles & What They Have To Do With My Vaginal Pain?

The pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles located in the pelvic region that support the organs in the pelvic area, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. They also help with bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and childbirth. Let’s dive a little deeper into the important role the pelvic floor muscles play in sexual function and why sex can become painful when there is weakness or tightness in the pelvic floor muscles.

Having weak pelvic floor muscles can be a cause of painful sex. When the muscles that support the pelvic organs are weak, they can't provide the necessary support and stability, which can lead to pain during penetration. Additionally, weak pelvic floor muscles can lead to decreased sensation and arousal during sex, as well as difficulty achieving orgasm. Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can help make orgasms more intense, improve your sexual stamina and make sex more enjoyable for both partners.

It is also possible for sex to be painful when the pelvic floor muscles are overly tight because the tightness can cause difficulty with penetration and can lead to friction and pain. Additionally, tight pelvic floor muscles can lead to decreased blood flow to the area, which can cause discomfort during sex.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help Alleviate Vaginal Pain!

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of health care designed to treat this issue. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These muscles can become weak or tight due to age, childbirth, surgery, or trauma, leading to pain during intercourse. Pelvic floor physical therapy is designed to strengthen and lengthen these muscles and alleviate the pain associated with intercourse. 

Pelvic floor physical therapy usually involves specific exercises to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor muscles. The therapist may also use manual techniques, such as massage and joint mobilization, to restore the normal function of the muscles.

The therapist will also work with the patient to address any psychological issues associated with the pain. This may include counseling, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications. These treatments help the patient to cope with the pain and eventually overcome it.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor physical therapy is an effective treatment for those suffering from painful sex. It is important to find a qualified and experienced therapist who can provide personalized treatment and support. With the right approach, many people are able to overcome the pain and enjoy a healthy sex life. If you have any questions about pelvic floor physical therapy please don't hesitate to ask. I look forward to helping you start your pain free journey today!

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