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Are You Scared of Vaginal Dilators? 5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Be…
Women with pain conditions and other sexual health conditions could find the prospect of using vaginal dilators a little daunting. If you are afraid of penetration of any kind, it’s little wonder that the thought of inserting a foreign object leaves you a little anxious. However, we are here to reassure you that you don’t need to be scared of vaginal dilators. Vaginal dilator therapy is recommended for conditions such as vaginismus, vulvodynia, vaginal atrophy, vulvar Vestibulitis, dyspareunia (painful sex), vaginal stenosis, and post-radiation and cancer treatments. So if you have any such condition, vaginal dilators could be the answer. Dilators have been carefully designed with your health, safety and emotional security in mind. VuvaTech has even taken dilator design to the next level with patented formations that do everything possible to relieve you of pain and anxiety. In case you are feeling worried about inserting a vaginal dilator, we have put together a list of reasons you need not be afraid… 5 reasons not to be scared of vaginal dilators Vaginal dilators come in different sizes When it comes to vaginal dilators, we understand that it’s not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ thing. That’s why we offer dilators in five different sizes. This means that you can start out with the smallest dilator until you become accustomed to how it feels, before moving up to the next size when the time feels right. The smallest dilator is only 3.25” wide and 1.57” in circumference, so it shouldn’t easy enough to insert – especially once you get used to using it. You can even purchase a set of two or five dilators. One of our sets comes with free lubricant to make insertion easier, and other dilators come with free lubricant pouches. You can either take your time and buy new dilators when the time is right, or have the full kit at the ready. One way or another you can simply move up through the sizes until you’ve achieved your goal. Vaginal dilators have been designed with your comfort in mind We know very well that different women have different requirements because of the various gynecological health problems they are dealing with. That’s why we have designed a range of dilators in different materials and with different functions so that you can choose what works best for you. Our dilators are ergonomically designed so that the tip is perfectly sloped for ease of entry; you will find them very easy to control, so you are unlikely to cause yourself pain. Our silicone dilators are made from medical grade silicone, making them flexible and silky smooth to the touch. Vaginal dilators work to desensitize you When we speak of desensitization we don’t mean that you’ll lose the kind of feelings you want to have down there. We are referring to the kind of desensitization that happens through conditioning oneself to become accustomed to something previously scary. The more often you insert a vaginal dilator successfully, the easier it will become. Then when the times comes that you have a gynecological exam or sexual intercourse, you will be more used to the prospect (and feeling) of penetration. When you are no longer scared of vaginal dilators, the chances are you will be much more ready for other kinds of penetration. Vaginal dilators can relieve pain and discomfort VuVa Vaginal Dilators were originally invented and patented by a pelvic pain patient. She knows all too well how challenging this kind of pain can be, and wanted to do something to help other women who needed a solution for painful intercourse (dyspareunia). These magnetic dilators contain more than 60 strategically placed Neodymium magnets, which are excellent for increasing blood flow and soothing nerves. These carefully created magnetic dilators are clinically proven to ease pain in women with chronic pain conditions like vulvodynia, so you can rest assured that they are going to bring you relief rather than cause harm. In fact, VuVatech has helped more than 30,000 women worldwide to overcome their pelvic pain conditions – so we know for sure that they work! Vaginal dilators can be used at your own pace One of the best things about vaginal dilators is that they can be used in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Sure, it might feel a little different if a therapist is using a dilator at your appointment, because you may not feel quite so in control. Yet when you using dilators at home, you have complete control over insertion, as well as the size you’re using. You can always stop if it gets too uncomfortable and try again when you feel more ready. You will soon see that you do not need to be scared of vaginal dilators because they have been designed with your recovery in mind and you have total control over the size you use and the pace at which you use them. Women all around the world have had much success with dilators, and the results will surely speak for themselves. Thanks for reading and feel free to drop us a line if there is any dilator advice you think we can give you… we’ll always be happy to assist. Do you need to order vaginal dilators so you can start your pelvic floor therapy process? Made in the USA. Visit www.vuvatech.com VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators Tara Langdale Schmidt is the inventor of the VuVa Dilator Company. She has pelvic floor dysfunction herself and wanted to create a dilator set that is made in America that women can trust. VuVatech has been in business since 2014 and has helped over 50,000 women all over the globe. She patented the Neodymium Vaginal Dilator, that is clinically proven to help with blood flow and nerve pain.
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Can Candida Cause Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia, the silent affliction, affects thousands of women. If you take the time to read the countless stories on the National Vulvodynia Association's website, you'll hear from women who have struggled for years to overcome vulvodynia and those still managing. Most will tell you that the cause of vulvodynia is unknown. (1) Some may wonder if Candida can cause vulvodynia. While more research needs to be conducted, there is evidence that recurring Candida or vaginal yeast infections can result in vulvodynia. What is Candida? According to medical education by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Candidiasis, or yeast infection, comes from a fungus called Candida. The fungus or yeast lives peacefully inside and throughout different parts of the body, including the vagina, gut, throat, and mouth. However, Candida can grow uncontrollably, resulting in an infection that causes vaginal changes and vulvar pain. When candidiasis occurs in the vagina, it's called vulvovaginal candidiasis, vaginal candidiasis, or candidal vaginitis. (2) Other types of Candida albicans can occur, including a urinary yeast infection or a genital yeast infection. Or thrush candida in the throat and mouth. (3) Symptoms of Candida When you have a Candida allergy, your symptoms may overlap with other conditions, making it hard to determine the cause. Vulvodynia patients may experience one or more of the following symptoms. Burning pain, especially when going to the bathroom or during sexual intercourse Itching in the vulvar tissue and vagina Inflammation, resulting in itchy, chronic pelvic pain Vulva becomes red and sore White cottage cheese-like discharge Watery vaginal discharge Vaginal rash Irritability, anxiety, and depression Vaginal yeast infection symptoms may be mild or moderate, but have a significant impact on women’s health. (4) Connection Between Candida and Vulvodynia Vulvodynia is a chronic condition resulting in vulvar pain that can come from a history of yeast infections. In one study of mice with recurrent infections, they also developed chronic vulvar pain. In the mice model, they were given an active infection and then provided a cure. After the first round and cure, mice healed normally. However, after the third infection, this changed. Even though the yeast infection had been alleviated, the pain research showed they had itching, pelvic pain, and sensitivity in the vulva remained. The nerve fibers had been altered to cause persistent pain. (5) Further Findings The research by Melissa Farmer and published in the Science Translational Medicine Journal, also showed that mice had vulvodynia up to 70 days after the yeast infection disappeared. These findings, while in mice, are essential for women with vulvodynia as well. (6) Up until the last few years, vulvodynia researchers have struggled to find the exact cause of vulvar pain. Everything from sexually transmitted diseases to sexual abuse has been hypothesized. Around six million women suffer from vulvodynia, and the discovery that chronic vaginal yeast infections may trigger the vaginal pain or vulvar vestibulitis is important. Vulvodynia patients find it hard to sit for long periods, wear specific clothing, undergo a pelvic exam, or even endure tampon insertion. Not to mention the pain disorder can make having a healthy sex life impossible. Finding a direct cause may provide treatment options never considered before. Or even prevent the problem from occurring in the first place. Vulvodynia Treatment and Candida Anytime you have a yeast infection, the first step is to remove the itching and burning fungus. Health professionals usually prescribe an antifungal medication to control fungus growth. However, once the yeast infection goes away, you may still have vulvodynia symptoms. Curing vulvodynia is possible with one or more of the following solutions. Dilation Therapy with Vaginal Dilators Vaginal dilators help train your vulvar tissue to relax. When your pelvic floor muscles have become tightened, inflamed, or stretched, pain occurs. Vaginal dilators are tube-shaped devices that come in various sizes. You slowly insert a dilator into your vagina to ease the chronic pain over time. VuVa Dilators are available at www.vuvatech.com The natural home remedy comes with no side effects (besides the possibility of moderate discomfort and mild spotting at first). Your pelvic floor holds and protects the vagina and vulva, and vulvodynia can result in pelvic floor spasms referred to as vaginismus. Those spasms contribute the vulvar pain and may even lead to a vulvodynia flare-up. You can treat vulvodynia flare-ups with vaginal dilators. Other Vulvodynia Treatments Vaginal dilators are an effective treatment for vulvodynia caused by Candida and other health conditions. However, you may want to try a multifaceted approach of combining different remedies to ease vulvodynia pain, including: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (helps women view and understand their vaginal pain in a new light) Biofeedback therapy (provides measures for controlling bodily functions, including vaginal pain) Medications (tricyclic antidepressants help desensitize vaginal tissue causing the pain) Low-oxalate diet (eliminate foods that may trigger a vulvodynia outbreak) Women can also reduce trigger factors, such as wearing tight clothing or sitting for long periods to manage vulvar sensitivity. Diagnosis of Vulvodynia Connected with Candida The diagnosis of vulvodynia, in general, can be difficult for some women to receive. Mostly due to a lack of clinical research in the medical world and not knowing the exact cause. Also, vulvodynia can have different factors working together, such as recurrent yeast infections, menopausal symptoms, or vulvodynia subsets. However, it's essential to know that you're not alone. Many women at all ages struggle to find a solution for vulvodynia. It lowers the quality of your life, personal relationships, and mental and physical wellbeing. You may have to speak to one or more gynecologists or doctors before you find the right treatment plan for your body. Know that vaginal dilators are proven to reduce vulvodynia pain and provide a simple yet effective solution for most women. https://www.nva.org/patient-services/patient-stories/ https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/genital/index.html https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/thrush/index.html https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3243907/ https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OByw1XwICA59ikdKs3Q8vGWjzz6RyQvJBm82hBkwkQDpc8FnTqqR198lCupg/view Do you need to order vaginal dilators so you can start your pelvic floor therapy process? Made in the USA. Visit www.vuvatech.com VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators Tara Langdale Schmidt is the inventor of the VuVa Dilator Company. She has pelvic floor dysfunction herself and wanted to create a dilator set that is made in America that women can trust. VuVatech has been in business since 2014 and has helped over 50,000 women all over the globe. She patented the Neodymium Vaginal Dilator, that is clinically proven to help with blood flow and nerve pain.
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Can Anxiety Cause Vulvodynia?
Women with vulvodynia often live with daily vaginal pain without knowing the exact cause. Chronic vulvar pain has a negative impact on relationships, fertility, and wellbeing. Women suffering from vulvodynia can also experience depression and anxiety. The question becomes, is anxiety causing vulvodynia? While there are different causes for vulvar pain, research shows a connection between anxiety and vulvodynia. Connection Between Vulvodynia and Anxiety Women with vulvodynia experience more mental distress according to numerous studies. Yet the exact causal relationship between a vulvodynia diagnosis and a psychiatric disorder, such as anxiety, was unclear for a long time. However, a study published in the Journal of Women's Health showed that women diagnosed with a previous anxiety disorder had an increased risk of developing vulvodynia. (1) The study made adjustments to account for age, race, education, and age of first sexual activity, and tampon use. Even with these adjustments, the results showed that women with previous anxiety or mood disorders were four times more likely to develop vulvodynia. It also showed that the development of vulvodynia also increased the risk of developing anxiety and depression. The study demonstrated there is a causal relationship with vulvodynia and anxiety that can’t be ignored. Vulvodynia and Pain-related Anxiety Another study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine showed that 47% of women with provoked vestibulodynia and associated overactive pelvic floor muscle dysfunction (PVD-PFD) experienced pain-related anxiety. (2) Also, 4% of the women experience depression, and 27% for both depression and anxiety. The findings are consistent with other research articles showing a connection between pain-related stress and other chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and lower back pain. Fear of Sexual Intimacy Pain-related anxiety associated with vulvodynia can cause a fear of sexual intercourse. If every time you're intimate brings on the pain syndrome, you may develop an aversion to intimacy over time. 45% of the women in a study conducted by Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson medical school cannot engage in sexual activities due to vulvodynia pain. (3) By not engaging in sexual intimacy, it harms a woman's self-image. The ongoing pain, combined with the fearing discomfort during sex, may also result in vaginismus (muscle spasms around the vagina). All of which makes sexual penetration impossible and sexual orgasm elusive. Lowers Quality of Life The National Vulvodynia Association reports that 65% of women with vulvodynia feel disconnected to their bodies, and 60% state it causes severe problems with enjoying life. All of which can lead to mood and anxiety disorders. The feelings of stress caused by vulvodynia can make daily activities hard to bear. (4) Women may find it hard to maintain healthy intimate relationships, hold down a job, or even wear specific clothing. Tight clothing and underwear can aggravate vulvar vestibulitis. Some cannot even have a pelvic exam or insert a tampon. Symptoms of Vulvodynia and Anxiety The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists state that vulvodynia feels like a burning, stinging sensation. It may also feel raw, achy, sore, and inflamed. The pelvic pain may center around a specific area, be constant or come and go without warning. In some cases, it may only be provoked when touched or sitting for long periods. (5) All of which can begin or lead to feelings of deep unrest, excess worry, restlessness, and fatigue. These symptoms have direct links to anxiety and depression. (6) Diagnosis of Vulvodynia Chronic vaginal pain that can't be explained by a medical condition, skin condition, menopause, postpartum healing, or complications means you may have vulvodynia. The first step is to make an appointment with an experienced healthcare professional. The process usually contains having a vaginal pain assessment on an examination table. The gynecologist or physician gently inserts a cotton swab to place pressure on multiple locations around the vaginal opening. Certain areas of the vulva may feel painful, and the other regions in your vagina may not. Making contact with specific areas or spots in the vagina that cause female pain can confirm vulvodynia. Treatments for Vulvodynia and Anxiety While the causes of vulvodynia may be hard to determine, there are effective treatments to help relieve pain and anxiety. Below are three options that have helped women suffering from vulvodynia and anxiety. Vulvodynia causes chronic tightness and spasms of the pelvic floor muscles. Reaching out to a trained pelvic floor physiotherapist may offer hands-on support that can be an essential part of overcoming vulvodynia and anxiety. Your physical therapist can help you relax your vaginal muscles and less excessive worrying connected to anxiety. If working with a pelvic floor physiotherapist seems overwhelming or not the right answer, you can use vaginal dilators or trainers to ease chronic vulvar pain. VuVa Magnetic Vaginal Dilators have neodymium magnets that help pull fresh, oxygenated blood to the vagina tissue. Vaginal dilators are medical devices that effectively treat vulvodynia in the privacy of your own home and come with no side effects. Choose a multidisciplinary approach that combines vaginal dilators and a mental-health trained professional, such as a counselor or therapist. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be useful for treating vulvodynia and anxiety. Vaginal therapy retrains your body, and counseling helps improve cognitive behavior. VuVa Dilators are available at www.vuvatech.com Women who suffer from vulvodynia can also experience anxiety. Both conditions have direct connections, according to science. Sometimes you can't find signs of blunt trauma on the vulva or find it hard to receive a diagnosis. However, it doesn't mean that the condition isn't real or painful. Seek vulvodynia treatment with vaginal dilators. You'll be on your way to easing anxiety and leading a life you deserve https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3186444/#:~:text=This%20study%20establishes%20that%20DSM,that%20affects%20millions%20of%20women.&text=Moreover%2C%20this%20study%20establishes%20that,recurrent%20mood%20or%20anxiety%20disorder. https://www.smoa.jsexmed.org/article/S2050-1161(20)30074-X/fulltext https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2746064/ https://www.nva.org/media-center/https://www.acog.org/en/Patient%20Resources/FAQs/Gynecologic%20Problems/Vulvodynia Healthline.com/health/anxiety-disorder-symptoms Do you need to order vaginal dilators so you can start your pelvic floor therapy process? Made in the USA. Visit www.vuvatech.com VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators Tara Langdale Schmidt is the inventor of the VuVa Dilator Company. She has pelvic floor dysfunction herself and wanted to create a dilator set that is made in America that women can trust. VuVatech has been in business since 2014 and has helped over 50,000 women all over the globe. She patented the Neodymium Vaginal Dilator, that is clinically proven to help with blood flow and nerve pain.
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Benefits of Holistic Magnetic Vaginal Dilator treatment for Vaginismus
If you suffer from vaginismus, you know how painful and frustrating the condition can be. But there is hope! Holistic magnetic vaginal dilator treatment is a drug-free, non-invasive way to help ease the symptoms of vaginismus. This type of treatment uses magnets to promote healing and improve blood flow to the area, which can help reduce pain and inflammation. Best of all, it can be done in the comfort of your own home! Here are some of the benefits of holistic magnetic vaginal dilator treatment for vaginismus: 1. Drug-free & non-invasive 2. Helps ease symptoms 3. Reduces pain & inflammation 4. Can be done in the comfort of your own home Vaginismus is a condition that affects women of all ages and can cause pain during sex, difficulty with tampon use, and discomfort during gynecological exams. Vaginismus is a common, yet complex condition that can cause considerable distress for women of all ages. It involves involuntary muscle contractions, which can make sex, tampon use, and gynecological visits uncomfortable and, in some cases unbearable. Fortunately, holistic magnetic vaginal dilator therapy offers non-invasive and long-lasting relief from the associated pain and discomfort. This form of treatment creates a calming magnetic field on the affected area in order to reduce the contraction of the muscles. As a wholly natural approach to aiding those with Vaginismus, it offers an inviting alternative for women who may be reluctant to seek out more conventional methods. Holistic VuVa magnetic vaginal dilator treatment is a new, non-invasive way to treat vaginismus. Holistic magnetic vaginal dilator treatment is an innovative, non-invasive procedure being used to treat vaginismus. The use of magnets placed near the vaginal area is shown to be successful in reducing tension and pain associated with the condition due to their therapeutic effects. Benefits of this treatment include decreased muscle spasms, little to no side effects, improved physical comfort and also improved emotional wellbeing. Additionally, it is a relatively quick process and does not require any medications or surgical interventions - making it accessible for many women who suffer from this condition. This type of treatment uses neodymium magnets to stimulate blood flow and help the muscles relax safely. Holistic Magnetic Vaginal Dilator treatment is a safe therapeutic approach that not only attempts to treat the physiological symptoms of Vaginismus, but also the psychological struggles associated with this experience as well. This non-invasive alternative uses neodymium magnets to stimulate blood flow and help the muscles surrounding the vagina to relax safely. Patients may experience reduced discomfort and faster healing time due to the effects of these magnets, providing an effective treatment option for those suffering from Vaginismus. In addition, engaging in this form of therapy can help promote more positive body image, increased self-awareness and self-confidence, which are all essential to successful recovery. The benefits of this treatment include improved sexual function, less pain during sex, and fewer episodes of vaginismus overall. Holistic Magnetic Vaginal Dilator treatment has demonstrated significant efficacy in improving sexual function, reducing pain throughout intercourse, and decreasing the overall frequency of vaginismus episodes. This non-surgical alternative is an attractive option for women struggling with this issue, as it provides natural relief while avoiding the unwanted side effects that come with surgical procedures. It is important to keep in mind that proper usage and consistency are essential in order to experience the maximum benefit of this method. With time and dedication, patients can find an effective way to reduce their symptoms and ultimately experience a better quality of life. If you are suffering from vaginismus, consider seeking out holistic magnetic vaginal dilator treatment and finding a pelvic floor physical therapist on the Herman and Wallace website. Vaginismus can be a difficult condition to manage, but holistic magnetic vaginal dilator treatment provides a relief from its symptoms. Working with a pelvic floor physical therapist trained to use this method is an excellent way to address the pain and discomfort that often accompanies vaginismus. The Herman and Wallace website offers resources to help those suffering from vaginismus find the right pelvic floor physical therapist. This kind of therapy has been proven to provide both long term relief from symptoms and reduced stress for those affected by vaginismus. If you are suffering from vaginismus, you are not alone. This condition affects women of all ages and can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. Holistic magnetic vaginal dilator treatment is a safe and trusted, non-invasive way to treat vaginismus that has many benefits, including improved sexual function and fewer episodes of vaginismus overall. If you think this type of treatment may be right for you, speak to your healthcare provider about it today. VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators Tara Langdale Schmidt is the inventor of the VuVa Dilator Company. She has pelvic floor dysfunction herself and wanted to create a dilator set that is made in America that women can trust. VuVatech has been in business since 2014 and has helped over 50,000 women all over the globe. She patented the Neodymium Vaginal Dilator, that is clinically proven to help with blood flow and nerve pain.
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5 Reasons Why Sex is Painful after Radiation
Radiation therapy focuses on one area of the body, but although it brings fewer side effects than chemotherapy, it does affect healthy cells. Is pain after radiation normal? Unfortunately, it is. Post-radiation pain is common, regardless of the type and location of cancer. Unfortunately, in some cases it can cause neuropathic pain, chronic post-radiation pain or soft tissue damage. Radiotherapy in the pelvic area most often causes inflammation, soreness and changes to tissues, so it makes sense that sex can be painful after radiation. This article examines the reasons why sex is painful after radiation. It also answers some of the most pertinent questions about the sexual side effects of pelvic radiotherapy, and sex after cancer. Why is sex painful after pelvic radiation? Sexual problems after cancer are all too common, whether the treatment was radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The fact is that pelvic radiation targets one of the most sensitive and delicate areas of a woman’s body. It is no surprise that there are many sexual effects of radiation, both during and after treatment. Below you can find 5 reasons why sex is painful after radiation: Inflammation and swelling of the skin and tissues Radiation therapy to the pelvis can irritate the sensitive and tender vaginal tissues, which may swell up and become red or pink (with the appearance of sun burn). This swelling and tissue irritation may last for several weeks after treatment, during which time sex can be painful. It may still be possible to have sex, although it might help to soothe inflamed tissues with a cooling lubricant – and of course to make sure your partner takes it easy until you are feeling better. Damage to the vaginal lining Radiation to the vagina or surrounding areas may cause damage to the vaginal lining. Your vaginal walls might thin out and become more fragile, leaving the skin prone to tears during sex. Many women who have had pelvic radiation treatment notice light bleeding during or after sex. It is possible to bleed without pain, but in some instances radiation can create vaginal ulcers or open sores. These can cause a lot of pain during sex, and can take many months to heal once treatment is finished. Fibrosis and scarring inside the vagina After your radiotherapy course is done, inflammation will start to heal. However, there can be further problems at this point. Radiation therapy can cause scarring on the vaginal walls, which may thicken and become leathery in texture. Vaginal fibrosis is another common side effect of high dose pelvic or vaginal radiation therapy, affecting up to 80% of women who received it. Fibrosis is the name for fibrous connective tissue that forms as a reparative response to injury or damage – in this instance, from radiation damage. Fibrous tissue can lead to tightening and shortening of the birth canal (called vaginal stenosis), which in turn can make sex painful or difficult. Due to the proximity of the anus to the vagina, vaginal fibrosis can also occur after anal radiation therapy. Early menopause and hormonal changes If you are given a high dose of radiation to the ovaries, they may no longer be able to function. Whether you recover from this can depend on your age and the dosage given, but it’s possible that you’ll become infertile. The ovaries are responsible for making hormones that naturally decline as you go into the menopause. However, radiation treatment can start this process earlier than it would naturally occur. As a result, you can go through the menopause and all the symptoms this brings, such as: The end of the menstrual cycles Hot flashes Mood changes Vaginal dryness Lack of libido Lack of libido and vaginal dryness can lead to painful sex after radiation. If you’re not in the mood, it will not feel natural, and if there is no lubrication, thrusting can hurt. A water-based personal lubricant may help with this issue, and it might be necessary to make extra efforts to become aroused. Even breast cancer survivors can experience the issue of painful sex after cancer treatment, since they are also more likely to develop vaginal stenosis or vaginal atrophy. Radiation enteritis and bladder and bowel damage Radiation enteritis is the name for inflammation of the intestines caused by radiation therapy. Although it is not a direct cause of painful sex, its symptoms can certainly impact your sex life, and inflammation and soreness can be felt during sex. Enteritis can cause nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps in people who had pelvic radiation. Although in most instances it is temporary, it is possible that symptoms can linger for months or years. It is also possible that radiation might damage the bowel or bladder, which might have a similar negative impact on your sex life. What can I do about the effects of pelvic radiation? Depending on the post-radiation sexual symptoms you are experiencing, there are various therapies, treatments and tools to choose from. Some of the ways to make sex easier after radiation include: Exercises to stretch and soften scar tissue Pelvic floor physical therapy Counseling Vaginal dilator therapy It’s a good idea to discuss your concerns and expectations with your health care provider – especially around your sex life. This isn’t something they will necessarily bring up if they don’t know that you are having problems with sex after radiotherapy. They may be able to suggest techniques or treatments to assist your particular situation, and answer any questions you have about sex during and after radiation. Can vaginal dilators help painful sex after radiation? Vaginal dilator therapy is the number one therapy for all kinds of vaginal issues. Women’s sexual health professionals all around the world often recommend it. Here is what Lauren Streicher, Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at The Feinberg School of Medicine, has to say about them: “Vaginal dilators have two purposes. One is to get the vagina used to having something inside of it. Even if the size of your vagina is normal, painful sex initiates a cycle of pain–fear–muscle spasm–more pain that results in the vagina constricting at any attempt to have intercourse. Dilators are often needed after the initial cause of the pain has been eliminated to erase muscle memory that has kept your pelvic floor in protective mode. Vaginal dilators are also a way to gently and gradually stretch tissues that are tight and have lost their elasticity, which is often the case if a woman has vaginal dryness and thinning from hormonal changes, skin conditions (such as lichen sclerosis) or her vagina has been altered by radiation or surgery. Scarring and shrinkage of the vaginal opening is almost always reversible! The other important advantage to using a dilator is that you will know when you are ready for intercourse.” Whatever your sexual problems after radiation, know that the chances are they will improve, but you might need to help your body to recover. Know that the side effects are often at their worst toward the end of the course of radiation, and for a couple of weeks afterwards. Once your healthy cells start to recover (usually within a few weeks), your sex life is likely to improve too. Resources Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5859894/ Mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/radiation-enteritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355409 Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/sex-after-cancer-for-women-over-60-how-dilators-can-help Vuvatech.com/blogs/vuvagirlblog/cervical-cancer-survival-and-your-sex-life Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3555916/ VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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Why Does Vulvodynia Flare-Up?
What can I do? Here at Vuvatech we have covered the topic of vulvodynia extensively, since it affects so many women around the world. We talked about it in depth in this article on vulvodynia, so for this current article, we will focus on what causes vulvodynia to flare-up and how you can prevent this. In short, vulvodynia is characterized by burning, stinging, aching, throbbing (or general soreness) in and around the vulva. Outwardly there may be no visible signs of a problem; however, redness and inflammation is sometimes present, and itching is common. Unfortunately, it can manifest seemingly out of nowhere, and typical vulvodynia symptoms may be intermittent, short-lived, or persistent. Vulvodynia flare-ups can happen over a period of months, and unfortunately for some, years. Vulvodynia can happen to any woman, at any time from her teen years onwards. Numbers of women affected by vulvodynia are thought to be between 200,000 and six million. However, vulvodynia and vulvar vestibulitis syndrome are more likely to happen to women who have the autoimmune conditions Sjogren's Syndrome and lupus erythematosus; fibromyalgia is also now linked vulvodynia and VVS. What causes a vulvodynia flare-up? Since nobody knows exactly what causes vulvodynia in the first place, there’s no way to guarantee avoiding flare-ups. However, there does seem to be a link between vulvodynia flare-ups and the following activities or situations: Sexual intercourse Exercise – in particular cycling (but even light exercise such as walking) Inserting tampons Irritating contraceptive creams or spermicides Sitting for too long (especially in damp gym clothing or swimwear) Using astringent or perfumed soaps, shampoos, douches and toilet paper Wearing non-breathable underwear in synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester Wearing tight-fitting pants Coming into contact with chemicals such as chlorine Presence of bacteria and residue urine Pressure on the bowel or bladder If you have vulvodynia, it may be down to one or more of the following reasons. Unfortunately, it is difficult to avoid such things, but being aware of the situations and activities listed above may prevent regular flare-ups: Injury or irritation to nerves Muscle spasms Changes in hormone levels Hypersensitivity to yeast infections Allergic reactions to chemicals Excessive use of antibiotics Vulva cells responding abnormally to trauma, infection or inflammation Although it may seem counterintuitive, STDs are not linked to the manifestation of vulvodynia. If you are having a flare-up, here’s what you can do Go to the toilet regularly, rather than waiting for a full bladder, since this prevents pressure on the bladder. Avoid strong-smelling soaps and detergents – go for chemical-free options instead. Avoid washing your underwear with fabric softener too, as it contains a lot of chemicals. Only buy soft, unscented toilet roll, and after using the toilet, clean your vagina with water every time. You should do the same after sexual intercourse to prevent bacteria from proliferating. As for underwear – no synthetics! 100% cotton is breathable and soft. The same goes for tampons and sanitary pads should be chemical free and made from non-synthetic materials. When showering, try to make sure that shampoo doesn’t come into contact with your vaginal area. The rest of the time, try to keep the area clean and dry. When taking the above precautions every day, you’re less likely to experience a vulvodynia flare-up. You may also benefit from using vaginal dilators for vulvodynia treatment, as many women with vulvodynia do. We hope you found this article useful… it’s one of many, so feel free to check out the Vuvatech blog for more articles on vulvodynia and other women’s health issues.
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What Can Trigger Vulvodynia?
Tips for Managing Vulvar Pain There is no denying that when vulvodynia strikes, it has takes a toll on your everyday life. Women with vulvodynia struggle with everything from sex to exercise, social activities and even doing their job. It can seriously impair your ability to enjoy your life, and you’ll no doubt be left wondering what can trigger vulvodynia and how you can manage the pain. Unfortunately there is no definitive cause of vulvodynia, but there’s a lot of speculation about this. A lot of people ask whether vulvodynia is an autoimmune disease (it’s not, but it is often linked to them) and some researchers have concluded that it is most probably a neuropathic issue. Since women who have vulvodynia are sometimes genetically predisposed to chronic pain, this could be a factor. If there are females in your immediate family with chronic pain conditions, this ups the chances significantly. This article will take a look at what can trigger vulvodynia, and what you can do when it strikes. What can trigger vulvodynia? There’s quite a list of things that can trigger vulvodynia. We’ve broken these down into categories. Bodily issues Nerve injury or irritation Vulvar cells reacting abnormally to trauma or infection Vulvar cells responding badly to chronic inflammation (due to genetics) Muscle spasms (in the pelvic floor area, as happens with the condition vaginismus) Changes in hormones Hypersensitivity to vaginal yeast infections Overuse of antibiotics (which can also cause yeast infections) Sexual abuse Pressure on the bowel and/or bladder (from fullness) Allergic reactions to chemicals Stress (which originates in the mind but takes up residence in your cells and tissues!) Irritants There are plenty of substances out there that can trigger vulvodynia, including: Chemical or perfumed soaps, body washes, shampoos and moisturizers (go for plant-based oils and preservative-free emollients every time) Allopathic medications Vaginal douches Detergents and fabric softeners Scented toilet paper Bleached/chemically treated sanitary products Nylon or polyester underwear and pants Tight-fitting clothing Perfumed contraceptive creams and spermicides Chlorine in swimming pools Damp swimming costumes or gym clothes left on too long Dried sweat or urine on skin or underwear Foods Certain foods can trigger vulvodynia, and sometimes it’s simply because they make your urine more irritating to your skin. Here are some of the foods you might want to avoid if you have (or are prone to) vulvodynia: Greens Beans Berries Chocolate Nuts Soy Goat dairy products Wheat gluten While those food products can trigger vulvodynia, you can also lessen the chances of a vulvodynia flare-up and mitigate its effects by getting more magnesium, vitamin D3, vitamin B12, omega-3 and probiotics through supplements. Make sure you go for high-quality supplements from recommended sources, as not all supplements are equal! Not getting enough fiber may also play a part in triggering vulvodynia because your bowel movements may not happen as often as they should, so be sure to get plenty of this into your diet too. Although vulvodynia can sometimes feel like the end of the world when it has you in its grip, rest assured that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Vulvodynia can go away on its own, and even when it doesn’t, there are many vulvodynia treatment options that can help a lot. For now, it is best to avoid the things that can trigger vulvodynia, and seek professional help if you can’t handle it alone. Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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“Have you ever thought about just not having sex?” The Dairy of my Broken Vagina by Fran Bushe
Written by Fran Bushe “Have you ever thought about just not having sex?” These words were said to me by a doctor a few weeks before I turned 30. I’d been sexually active for 14 years and the truth is that I just didn’t ‘get’ sex. I wanted to want sex, but for the most part, I participated (giving appropriate “ooh” and “aah” noises at what felt like reasonable intervals) and hoped that the next time would be better. Mostly, it hurt. It had been this way since I was 16, and it was impossible to know if it hurt because I wasn’t turned on enough, or I wasn’t turned on enough because I was always worrying it was going to hurt. This became a vicious cycle and the thought of actually enjoying sex became a distant dream. At 30 I’d decided that enough was enough. I was tired of feeling underwhelmed and wanted to become a multi-orgasmic-tantric-come-with-ease-never-painful-sexual-goddess. Or, at least, learn to enjoy — a bit — the sex I was having. That year Viagra had been made available over the counter without prescription (in the UK), and I felt angry that sexual problems for people with vaginas were not being treated with the same attention, care or empathy. I had endured too much sitting in front of Doctors, who didn't meet my eye as they embarrassedly shuffled their papers. They made me feel like asking to enjoy sex was self indulgent, unreasonable and greedy. Feeling unheard and isolated I ended up writing about my experiences instead. . I didn’t think anyone would be interested in hearing about my vagina. All I could picture was people rolling their eyes thinking, “oh my goodness, it’s going to be a woman on stage shouting at me about her vagina for 55 minutes”. I was wrong, turns out people are very invested in my vagina. Let's hear it for my vagina! First I wrote my stage show Ad Libido, which had sell out runs across the United Kingdom. Now I am writing a book and have just released a tv pilot based on my own diaries The Diary of my Broken Vagina. For me talking about it is scary, as it means admitting openly I feel intimately broken at my very core, but it has also encouraged me to communicate and not feel like this is something I have to deal with on my own. Fran Bushe @franbushe Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition affecting women’s hormone levels, in that their bodies will produce more male hormones than is normal, and cysts will grow inside their ovaries. The word “polycystic” actually means “many cysts.” Polycystic ovary syndrome affects the ovaries and reproductive organs that produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone. The ovaries also normally produce a small amount of androgens (the male hormones), but with PCOS, estrogen and progesterone levels will be lower than normal, while androgens will be higher. Due to the abnormal hormone levels, fluid-filled sacs (cysts) start to grow inside the ovaries. These cysts are actually follicles containing immature eggs, but the eggs don’t mature enough to start the ovulation process. When women don’t ovulate regularly, fewer eggs are released for fertilization. PCOS was first discovered by Italian physician Antonio Vallisneri back in 1721, and today it affects up to 27% of women of childbearing age (from 15 to 44). However, it may go undiagnosed in up to 70% of that group. What are the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome? It is common for women with polycystic ovary syndrome to have ovarian cysts, high male hormone levels, and a disrupted menstrual cycle (irregular or missed periods). Symptoms are likely to appear around the start of the first period, but for some, they don’t find out they have PCOS until they can’t get pregnant, or start to put on weight. Irregular/fewer periods: not ovulating means less reliable shedding of the womb lining Heavy menstruation: due to a delayed build up of uterine lining Excessive body hair (hirsutism): facial and body hair can develop because of the androgens Headaches Acne: androgens cause oily skin and pimple breakouts on the face, chest, and back Thinning of hair: unfortunately, women with PCOS can suffer from male pattern baldness Skin darkening in creased areas of skin (e.g. neck, groin, beneath the breasts) Infertility: it can be difficult to get pregnant due to lack of ovulation Obesity/metabolic syndrome: up to 80% of PCOS sufferers will put on weight or become obese, with high blood sugar, high blood pressure and imbalanced cholesterol levels. This leads to risk of stroke, diabetes and heart disease. Sleep apnea: difficulty breathing normally at night, which disrupts sleep Endometrial cancer: due to thickened, unreleased uterine lining Depression: due to imbalanced hormones and dealing with other symptoms What causes polycystic ovary syndrome? As yet there is no known cause of PCOS. All Doctors know is that high male hormone levels stop the ovaries from producing the necessary female hormones needed for a healthy cycle. There may be a genetic factor, but insulin resistance is a more likely factor given that up to 70% of women with PCOS also have this. If your cells aren’t properly using insulin your body will demand more of it, triggering the pancreas to create it in a bid to compensate for the lack. However, the extra insulin created causes the ovaries to produce more androgens. Inflammation is another possible cause of polycystic ovary syndrome, since it tends to run concurrently with PCOS. It may be possible to reduce inflammation through diet, which also helps with obesity. Obesity may actually be the cause of the inflammation that led to PCOS in the first place, however. Treating PCOS The treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome are usually birth control pills and diabetes drugs. These are prescribed because they can restore hormone levels, resulting in fewer challenging PCOS symptoms. Many women benefit from low carbohydrate or low GI diets, as well as at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3 times per week. If overweight, losing as little as 5% of your bodyweight is likely to have a positive impact on PCOS. In severe cases, laser surgery to restore ovulation may be the answer. If you think that polycystic ovary syndrome may be causing your symptoms, you should contact your Doctor for a proper diagnosis. It is better to tackle the problem sooner rather than later, in order to prevent the condition progressing or leading to secondary diseases. Don’t forget to follow the VuvaTech blog for insights and advice on various women’s health problems… we’re here to help!
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