Sexual pain in women can hurt more than your sex life. Bergeron, Rosen, and Pukall (2014) suggest, “The experience of sexual pain during intercourse is extremely distressing to both the sufferer and their partner, who may feel confused, guilty, sympathetic and/or deprived. The consequences of this problem extend beyond sexual intercourse and affect individual psychological health, as well as … [Read more...] about The 7 Most Common Psychological Contributors of Sexual Pain in Women
Sexual and Pelvic Pain
Vaginismus Treatment in the Media
Why Should Psychotherapy be a Part of Vaginismus Treatment and Other Pelvic Pain Issues? Have you ever paid an attention to how vaginismus and its treatment are depicted in the media? How realistic are pelvic pain problems on TV shows and movies? You may be familiar with a TV series called Private Practice. In this medical drama show, an OBGYN joins a group private practice for holistic … [Read more...] about Vaginismus Treatment in the Media
When to Talk to A Healthcare Provider About Pelvic Pain
One third of women will experience pelvic pain over their lifetime. Anytime you notice a change in what is normal for you, it is important to keep track of this change and speak with your doctor. If your doctor dismisses you, make sure to seek out a second opinion. Below are 5 symptoms that you should talk to your health care provider about: Pain with penetration: Penetration could include … [Read more...] about When to Talk to A Healthcare Provider About Pelvic Pain
Sexual Issues in the Time of Quarantine
Quarantining with a partner can present a myriad of issues—changes in power dynamics and roles in the relationship due to job changes or job loss, coparenting while trapped together, stressors related to worrying about older or at risk family members, loss of alone time, inability to engage in enjoyable hobbies or coping skills, etc. All of these challenges can of course spill over into our sex … [Read more...] about Sexual Issues in the Time of Quarantine
Expanding Your Sexual Menu
Over the course of a long-term relationship there will be points where penetrative sex is not an option, or when couples want to expand their sexual repertoire even if penetrative sex is still an option. Common reasons why couples must sometimes take penetrative sex off the table include when the female partner is struggle with a sexual or pelvic pain condition, when a partner is receiving … [Read more...] about Expanding Your Sexual Menu
5 Common Questions About Vaginismus
What is Vaginismus?:Vaginismus is when the muscles surrounding the vaginal opening involuntarily contract or spasm, making penetration of any kind painful, if not impossible. What are the Symptoms of Vaginismus?: Many women with vaginismus are unable to tolerate inserting a tampon, having a pelvic exam or having penetrative sex. Often women will describe attempts at penetrative sex as if their … [Read more...] about 5 Common Questions About Vaginismus