Painful Sex? 6 Pelvic Floor Symptoms to Watch For
Did you know that nearly 3 out of 4 women or people with female anatomy experience pain during intercourse at some point in their lives? It’s a startling statistic that highlights just how common this issue is. Yet, despite its prevalence, the topic of painful sex is often shrouded in silence and discomfort. And we get it! It can be a difficult and sensitive subject to talk about. If you’re experiencing pain during sex and intimacy, it's important to understand that you're not alone and, more importantly, that help is available.
Let’s explore six key pelvic floor symptoms that should never be ignored. Understanding these signs can not only help you address the pain but also take the crucial steps toward a more comfortable and fulfilling sexual experience.
1. You’re Only Able to Tolerate Certain Positions
If you find yourself sticking to just a couple of positions during sex because others are too painful, it might be a sign that your pelvic floor muscles are either too tight or too weak. Your body’s “favorite” positions could indicate that something’s out of balance. It’s worth exploring this with a pelvic health specialist who can help you return to a more comfortable and varied experience.
2. Burning, Stinging, or Raw Feeling at the Opening
Do you feel pain, burning, stinging, pressure, or discomfort at the vaginal opening? It could be a signal from your body that something is wrong and time for a detailed assessment with a professional.
3. Feeling Like Your Body Won’t Let Anything into the Vaginal Canal
If you ever feel like your body is actively refusing to allow anything into the vaginal canal, it could be a sign of vaginismus. This condition involves involuntary muscle contractions that make penetration difficult or impossible. It’s a real issue, but the good news is there are effective treatments and therapies that can help you manage and overcome it.
4. Pain with Deeper Penetration
Pain that starts when penetration gets deeper can be tied to several issues, from pelvic floor muscle tension to conditions like endometriosis. If deeper penetration is causing discomfort, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. A pelvic floor therapist can help uncover the root cause and provide you with the right solutions.
5. Pain or Discomfort at Your Perineal Scar
If you’ve had childbirth or surgery that involved the perineum, pain at the site of a scar can be a real problem during sex. Scar tissue can be sensitive and less flexible, leading to discomfort during sex. Consulting with a pelvic floor therapist can provide strategies to manage and alleviate this pain.
6. Pain with Initial Insertion
Pain right at the start of penetration can be alarming. This might be due to dryness, trauma, or muscle tension. Understanding and addressing the cause of this pain is crucial for improving your overall sexual experience.
Help for Painful Sex: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Here’s the deal. Painful symptoms like these can affect your relationship with yourself and your partner. But your pain with sex won’t go away unless you can first start talking about it. Since discussing this kind of pain can be very sensitive and challenging for many of us, it’s essential to find a pelvic floor specialist you trust. These experts will listen and support you, guide you through treatment, and help you learn more about your body.
By talking about your pain, you can begin the process of healing and improve how you communicate your needs and preferences. When you consult with a pelvic floor physical therapist, you’ll work together to identify the root causes of your symptoms and help you experience less pain.
So, no more Googling for solutions on your own! At Pelvic Health and Wellness, we’re here to support and encourage you on your journey back to pelvic wellness and pain-free sex. We aim to help you feel more confident and rediscover your pleasure. We will also ensure your appointments and calls with us are safe, non-judgmental spaces where you can share openly.
About Pelvic Health & Wellness
Pelvic Health & Wellness was built with you in mind. We practice whole-person, individualized pelvic floor physical therapy in a caring and safe environment. Our therapists specialize in treating pelvic health concerns such as fertility, pain, incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, constipation, and various pregnancy and postpartum-related conditions.
We understand that being ready to talk about and address your pelvic floor wellness concerns comes from a place of strength. We are here to support and encourage you on your journey back to healthy and pain-free intimacy so you can return to doing what you love! If you are ready to take the first step in reclaiming your pelvic health and wellness, please contact us today.