Vaginismus in Edmond, WA
Vaginismus refers to the involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor muscles that surround the vaginal opening that cause an involuntary tensing of the vagina, making vaginal intercourse painful and impossible. However, it doesn’t start and end with sex because vaginismus can occur during pelvic examinations or while inserting a tampon during menstruation in women of all ages. Fortunately, we offer effective physical therapy treatment for individuals suffering from vaginismus in Edmond, WA. Kindly read on to learn further.
Types of Vaginismus
Vaginismus is classified into two major categories - primary and secondary, based on the period and circumstances surrounding the development of the condition.
- Primary vaginismus: This type of vaginismus occurs when the individual has always experienced pain every time their vagina is penetrated. Individuals with this type of vaginismus have never been able to have painless sex, insert a tampon or other reproductive devices, or have a medical examination without experiencing pain from the onset. It is sometimes called lifelong vaginismus because it has always been present in the individual.
- Secondary vaginismus: This type of vaginismus, on the other hand, is also known as acquired vaginismus which occurs when a woman who has had painless vaginal penetration in the past suddenly experiences pain or finds penetration impossible. Secondary vaginismus is triggered by a specific event, including emotional trauma, surgery, childbirth, etc.
Causes of Vaginismus
Some of the most common causes of vaginismus include injury to the pelvic area, childbirth, STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections), UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections), menopause, previous surgery in the genital area, and stress. Other reasons include a previous painful or abusive sexual experience, shame or fear about sex, and anxiety disorders.
Symptoms of Vaginismus
Common signs and symptoms of the presence of vaginismus in an individual include:
- Muscle spasms in the pelvic floor
- Pain and discomfort during vaginal penetration
- Fear of sexual activity
- Anxiety before and during vaginal penetration
- Loss of sexual desire
The Role of Physical Therapy in Treating Vaginismus
Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatment methods for vaginismus. This healthcare practice can relax and rehabilitate the pelvic floor muscles, putting an end to the involuntary muscle spasms and tensing of the vagina. Physical therapy’s non-invasive approach is suitable to prevent further damage to the vagina and reduce the risks of complications and other side effects. The goals of Edmonds physical therapy for vaginismus include:
- Pain reduction and relief
- Address muscle imbalances
- Reduce muscle tension
- Relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles
- Gradual dilation and desensitization to penetration, etc.
Physical Therapy Techniques for Treating Vaginismus
During vaginismus Physical Therapy in Edmonds, WA, our specialists employ several physical therapy techniques to reduce pain and relax the pelvic floor muscles. One of the primary physical therapy techniques for vaginismus is exercise therapy.
Exercise therapy is a set of activities and movements designed by a physical therapist to relieve pain, improve function, promote mobility, and treat several conditions. Physical therapists may employ different types of exercises during treatment. However, the major type of exercise physical therapists recommend for vaginismus is pelvic floor exercise.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
The pelvic floor muscles span the bottom of the pelvis, supporting the bladder, bowel, uterus, and other pelvic organs. While the pelvic floor muscles are important for excretory functions, they are also essential for sexual function in people of all genders. Voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor contributes to sexual arousal and sensation in women. However, involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor due to weakness and other factors lead to vaginismus; hence, the need for Edmonds Pelvic Floor Therapy for Vaginismus. Pelvic floor exercises help to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles in the case of vaginismus. Common examples of pelvic floor exercises for vaginismus include Kegels, pelvic floor drops, reverse kegels, pelvic tilts, hip bridges, etc.
Other physical therapy techniques that our specialists at Edmond, WA, may employ during physical therapy for vaginismus include:
- Manual therapy
- Biofeedback
- Breathing and relaxation exercises
- Desensitization techniques
- Dilator therapy
- Stretches
- Electrical signaling
- Patient Education
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Vaginismus physical therapy?
Vaginismus physical therapy is the use of non-invasive and effective physical therapy techniques to treat and manage involuntary muscle spasms and vagina tensing that makes vaginal penetration painful and impossible.
How Painful is Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Usually, pelvic floor therapy is not painful. However, if you feel any pain at all during or after pelvic floor therapy, it should not be intense and should subside shortly. If you experience sudden or intense pain during or after pelvic floor therapy, you should inform your physical therapist.
How long does it take to cure vaginismus?
The total cure for vaginismus depends on the severity of the condition. However, you should see visible improvements after some weeks of physical therapy.
Conclusion
Vaginismus is a destabilizing condition that may make vaginal penetration painful, difficult, and sometimes impossible. If you are suffering from this condition, physical therapy at Lilly Physical therapy is right for you.
