Are tampons a no-go?
Does your annual GYN exam feel impossibly painful?
Has intimacy started to feel like something you dread rather than enjoy?
If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you’re not broken.
For many women, pain with intercourse, tampons, or exams (called dyspareunia) is one of the most isolating and confusing experiences. It’s often brushed off as “normal,” “in your head,” or something you “just need to relax” through, but the truth is, pain is your body’s way of asking for help.
Why This Happens
Pelvic pain and painful intimacy can stem from several causes, and often it’s a combination of factors:
- Tension or overactivity in the pelvic floor muscles: The muscles that support your bladder, uterus, and bowels may be gripping too tightly, which makes penetration or even inserting a tampon feel like hitting a wall.
- Scarring or trauma: Childbirth, surgeries, or past painful experiences can lead to scar tissue and sensitivity.
- Hormonal changes: Postpartum, menopause, or birth control–related changes can cause dryness and irritation that heighten discomfort.
- Nervous system sensitivity: The pelvic floor can become “guarded” after pain or trauma, staying in a protective mode that makes relaxation difficult.
The good news? None of these causes mean you have to live with pain. They’re treatable, and that’s where pelvic floor physical therapy comes in.
How We Help
Every person’s pain story is unique, so we start by listening, really listening, to understand your symptoms, fears, and goals.
From there, your treatment might include:
- Pelvic floor muscle release and retraining (both externally and internally if appropriate)
- Breath and relaxation techniques to calm the nervous system
- Education so you understand what’s happening and feel confident in your body again
- Desensitization and movement retraining to help your body feel safe with intimacy
- Collaborative care—we often work alongside your GYN, sex therapist, or counselor to support healing from all angles
This isn’t just about eliminating pain, it’s about helping you reconnect with your body and your confidence.
Dr. Amy has changed my life! I really thought there was something wrong with me for so long because sex was so painful. Turns out my muscles are just terribly constricted. She has helped me immensely and educated me so much on the pelvic area and the muscles in that area. I can’t say enough wonderful things about her. She has helped me physically as well as teaching me relaxation techniques. If you have any issues pertaining to the pelvic or lower back area definitely give her a call. She’s such a wonderful person!!!
You Deserve to Feel Comfortable in Your Body
If pain has been holding you back, from intimacy, from confidence, from feeling at home in your body, know that healing is absolutely possible.Let’s start with a simple conversation. 💕
Schedule your free phone consultation to see how pelvic floor therapy can help you move from pain to peace.
