Promoting Sexual Health: The Intersection of Sex Education and Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
As a pelvic floor physical therapist, my primary goal is to help my patients achieve optimal pelvic health and overall well-being. One aspect that is often overlooked by many doctors is sex education, which is why I’ve made it my business to make sure that you know just how important and connected sex education and pelvic floor health is!
Understanding sexual health is not only empowering but also essential for developing a positive relationship with our bodies and enhancing our intimate experiences.
In my practice, I firmly believe in the integration of sex education into pelvic floor physical therapy. By incorporating these elements together, I can provide a more comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and emotional aspects of sexual well-being. Keep reading to learn more about how sex education and the pelvic floor are so intrinsically linked.
Integrating Sex Education in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Sex education, in the context of pelvic floor physical therapy, involves discussing and educating clients about anatomy, sexual function, and common issues that may affect their sexual health. By doing so, we create a safe space for open dialogue, dispel myths and misconceptions, and empower individuals to take control of their sexual well-being.
Empowering Clients Through Knowledge
When it comes to sexual health, knowledge is power. By educating my clients about their pelvic floor muscles, how they function, and their role in sexual satisfaction, I empower them to make informed decisions and take proactive steps towards improving their sexual well-being.
Sex education in pelvic floor physical therapy often includes discussions about sexual response, arousal, and the potential impact of pelvic floor dysfunction on sexual function. By demystifying these topics, clients can better understand their bodies, manage expectations, and work towards achieving fulfilling intimate relationships.
Sex education in pelvic floor physical therapy also goes beyond addressing physical concerns. It also focuses on nurturing healthy intimate relationships. By facilitating open conversations about desires, boundaries, and communication, I help individuals and their partners build strong foundations for intimacy.
Through sex education, partners can learn effective communication techniques, explore alternative forms of intimacy, and discover new ways to connect emotionally and physically. By creating a supportive environment that fosters trust and understanding, I hope to help my clients enhance not only sexual satisfaction but also overall relationship satisfaction.
How Physical Therapy Can Help with Pain During Sex
Pelvic floor physical therapy can be incredibly helpful for those who are experiencing pelvic pain during sex due to pelvic floor issues. As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I work with patients to help them understand their pelvic floor anatomy and function. I also help them learn how to relax and release their pelvic floor muscles, which can be particularly helpful for those with vaginismus.
Among these relaxation exercises is the option of exploring and expanding the sexual “menu”, as I like to call it, to find out which touches help and which hurt. These may change over the course of treatment. If you want to try this method, I highly recommend pleasure mapping and allowing yourself to get more excited about the prospect of sexuality in all of its many forms — mental, penetrative, and non-penetrative.
These two sites come highly recommended by many of my patients to help with sexy time stuff.
In addition to muscle relaxation techniques, I also work with patients to strengthen their pelvic floor muscles when they are weak or underactive. Strengthening exercises can help improve bladder and bowel function, as well as sexual function.
For those with vaginismus or other chronic pain conditions, I may also use techniques like manual therapy or dry needling to help alleviate pain and improve function. These techniques can help improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension in the pelvic floor, which can lead to improved sexual function over time.
Ready to get rid of your pain during sex? Let’s chat!
Sex education and pelvic floor physical therapy are interconnected, forming a powerful combination that promotes sexual health and overall well-being. Pelvic floor issues, especially when in combination with sexual health, can be incredibly personal and sensitive, and it’s important to me that my patients feel heard and supported throughout their treatment journey.
If you’re experiencing pain during sex, know that you’re not alone and that there is help available. And if you’re feeling nervous or embarrassed about seeking help, remember that pelvic floor physical therapists, like me, are trained professionals who have seen it all before.
I always strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for my patients to ask questions, share concerns, and receive the care they need. By integrating sex education into my practice, I work to educate, empower, and support individuals on their journey to achieving fulfilling and satisfying intimate lives.
Want to work together? Book a virtual or in-person session with me to receive a specialized, unique-to-you treatment plan to get the healing you need.
Looking for additional resources on pelvic health? My YouTube channel holds dozens of videos where I offer free pelvic floor training, yoga exercises, and more. My instagram page takes a little bit more of a light hearted approach while still providing educational content. And of course, if you have a specific pelvic floor subject you’re looking for more information on, a quick search of my blogs may give you the answers you need.
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