Sexual health is a significant aspect of well-being, but for many women, it can become a source of discomfort, frustration, and even emotional distress. Painful sex, or dyspareunia, is a common yet often misunderstood issue that can stem from various physical causes—one of which may be pelvic floor dysfunction. Hina analyzes what pelvic floor pain is, how it can affect sexual health, and what steps you can take toward relief and recovery.
Recognizing the Problem
For many women experiencing pain during intercourse, the sensations may range from mild discomfort to severe, sharp pain. It can feel as though there is a block or obstruction, making penetration impossible or excruciatingly painful. This issue is not in your head—it is a legitimate and physical condition that requires attention.
Pelvic floor physical therapist Hina Sheth, with over 21 years of experience, emphasizes that women should not dismiss their symptoms or be misled into believing that anxiety, relaxation techniques, or a glass of wine are the sole solutions. While mental health can influence physical well-being, the root cause for many lies in the musculature of the pelvic floor.
What Is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located at the base of your pelvis. These muscles support your bladder, rectum, and reproductive organs. They also play a crucial role in sexual function, childbirth, and bowel and bladder control. Just like any other muscles in the body, these can become tight, strained, or dysfunctional, leading to a variety of problems, including pain during sex.
Why Do Pelvic Floor Muscles Cause Pain?
When the pelvic floor muscles are tight or hypertonic, they can create significant discomfort. This tightness may lead to:
- Vaginal pain on penetration: The tight muscles can make any form of insertion—be it a partner’s penis, a tampon, or even a medical instrument—painful or impossible.
- Abdominal or deep pelvic pain: Some women report feeling pain in their lower abdomen or ovaries, which can be referred pain caused by pelvic floor dysfunction.
- Bladder and bowel issues: Pelvic floor tightness often coincides with urinary urgency, frequency, or constipation.
Common Misdiagnoses and Frustrations
Many women facing these challenges are told by gynecologists that nothing appears physically wrong. While gynecologists focus on detecting significant medical issues such as fibroids or cancers, they may overlook the muscular system’s role in pelvic pain. Unfortunately, this gap in understanding leaves many women feeling hopeless and misunderstood.
Nearly 30% of women globally experience some form of pelvic floor dysfunction, affecting their ability to enjoy intercourse and leading to emotional and psychological distress. For younger women, this can be especially isolating as they compare themselves to peers who seem to experience no such issues.
Symptoms Beyond Sexual Pain
Pelvic floor dysfunction often manifests alongside other symptoms, including:
- Pain when wearing tight clothing or underwear
- Discomfort during daily activities such as sitting or walking
- Bladder or bowel issues, such as incomplete evacuation or painful urination
These interconnected symptoms suggest that the pelvic floor does not operate in isolation. It interacts with other muscle groups in the body, and tightness in one area can cascade into problems elsewhere.
Seeking Help
If you suspect pelvic floor dysfunction, consult a pelvic floor physical therapist. These specialists are trained to assess and treat the underlying muscular issues causing your symptoms. A thorough evaluation will likely include examining your posture, hip alignment, and the pelvic floor muscles themselves.
What Can You Expect From Treatment?
Treatment typically involves:
- Manual therapy: Physical therapists use hands-on techniques to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility in the pelvic region.
- Exercises: Specific stretches and strengthening exercises can help restore balance and functionality to the pelvic floor.
- Lifestyle modifications: Addressing factors like stress, diet, and posture can further enhance recovery.
- Education: Understanding the anatomy and mechanics of your body is empowering and helps demystify the pain.
Could Pelvic Floor Pain Be the Cause of Painful Sex? – Conclusion
For those struggling with painful intercourse, it’s crucial to remember that you are not alone. Many women, from teens to their 70s, face similar challenges. Pelvic floor dysfunction is a physical problem that can be addressed and treated successfully with the right approach. With professional guidance and a personalized treatment plan, you can reclaim a comfortable and fulfilling sex life.
Painful sex should never be normalized or dismissed. If you’ve been told to simply “relax” or that “it’s all in your head,” seek help from professionals who understand the complexities of pelvic floor dysfunction. Relief is possible, and you deserve it.
Also Read: Is Your Genital Pain Linked to an STD?
About:
I’m Hina Sheth. I have been treating complex orthopedics, sports and pelvic floor physical problems for over 25 years with amazing results. Now I want to bring my knowledge to the global community so I can spread my knowledge to you.
Our bodies are complex systems of 600 muscles and organs intertwined in a fascial system that all work together. Imbalances in this system such as trigger points, visceral and myofascial restrictions can lead to joint, pelvic, and organ issues.
Factors like nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress play a crucial role. Unfortunately, our current healthcare model does not look at our bodies as a whole and oftentimes compartmentalize musculoskeletal injuries and dysfunctions.
At Rebalance, our goal is to holistically treat this complex system to restore harmony in the body. By addressing these imbalances, we help clients improve their overall health and well-being. Our vision is to empower individuals to create a healthier lifestyle for themselves.
