How to use dilators to address pain with penetration
According to American Family Physician, up to 20% of people with vulvas may experience pain with sexual activity. However despite the prevalence of pain with penetrative sex, gynecological exams and tampon insertion, those experiencing this pain often remain in the dark regarding treatment options. Due to a combination of social stigma surrounding discussing sex and the lack of education on the parts of medical providers, people with vulvas often wait years prior to seeking treatment and finding answers to their pain. Fortunately, once folks determine who to see for their symptoms, pain with penetration and sexual activity is oftentimes very treatable.
If you're experiencing pain with penetration, the first place you want to begin is with your medical provider. There are a number of reasons sex can hurt, including underlying gynecological and urological conditions as well as hormonal changes, both of which may require medical treatment. A third and very common cause of pain with sexual activity and penetration is pelvic floor muscle tension. If you've determined pelvic floor muscle tension is the cause of your pain, dilators may be an excellent tool for you.
As a disclaimer: When possible, I highly recommend an evaluation by a pelvic floor PT prior to using dilators. Dilators are just one tool and one way to address pelvic floor tension and a PT can help determine if they are the best form of treatment for you.
Check out the video below to dive into:
What dilators are
Why they're useful for pain with penetration
How to use them
How long to use them for
Where to get them & more
But remember, pelvic pain is complex. A pelvic floor PT can help you determine why you’re experiencing pelvic floor tension and how to holistically treat your pain.
Want to learn more about working with Lady Bird PT in our Austin, TX clinic or virtually? Call us at 512-766-2649 or contact us here.
This post was written by Dr. Rebecca Maidansky, PT, DPT, owner and founder of Lady Bird Physical Therapy. Rebecca is a pelvic floor physical therapist in Austin, TX and founded Lady Bird Physical Therapy in 2019. She is the creator of Birth Preparation and Postpartum Planning, Baby Steps Fitness and the head writer and editor of The Pelvic Press.
Rebecca is a passionate writer and vocal advocate for pelvic health and the importance of improving access to perinatal care. She believes strongly that many common pregnancy pains and postpartum symptoms can be eased or even prevented with basic education and care.
She created this blog to help all birthing people manage common pregnancy pains, prepare for birth and recover postpartum.