Pelvic and Sexual Pain
Symptoms:
Symptoms from pelvic pain can include difficulty with sitting, pain during sexual activities, and pain or discomfort in the hips, lower abdomen and lower back. Physical therapy for pelvic and sexual pain includes pelvic floor muscle relaxation, manual therapy for trigger points, and biofeedback.**
Causes:
The pelvic floor muscle creates a sling which supports the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Tension and pain within the sling can be caused by muscle, joint, or nerve problems. An overactive pelvic floor can also be a source of pelvic pain.
Conditions:
- Vulvodynia: vulvar discomfort, can be provoked or unprovoked pain, often described as "burning" pain
- Vaginismus: vaginal tightness that can cause discomfort, burning, or pain; often makes penetration difficult or impossible
- Coccygodynia: pain in the tailbone (the coccyx), especially during sitting
- Dyspareunia: painful penetration during sexual activities, tampon use, or pelvic exams
- Proctalgia Fugax: sharp, fleeting rectal pain
** Internal exams are the best way to assess the pelvic floor but at TLC we understand that not everyone is able to tolerate an internal exam due to pain or anxiety. Due to this we offer two alternatives to the traditional internal pelvic exam:
(1) An external evaluation OR
(2) An internal exam with the use of lidocaine, that is applied topically prior to the pelvic exam. If the use of lidocaine is the option that you prefer, please notify TLC prior to your appointment or contact your doctor and request a prescription for 4% aqueous lidocaine and bring it to your first appointment.