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What are dilators used for?
Vaginal dilators are pelvic wands used to strengthen vaginal muscles slowly and naturally. Sometimes referred to as vaginal trainers, they are commonly prescribed to improve the elasticity of the vagina for a variety of reasons. Is sexual pain normal? No. And you should know what devices to use to treat it. Women use them to improve sexual pain or make it possible to have pelvic exams. In some cases, women suffer from vulvodynia, unexplained chronic pelvic pain, and dilators help ease the discomfort. Regardless of the reason, dilators improve mental, physical, and sexual health. What is a dilator medical? Dilators resemble a sex toy but have nothing to do with using them for sexual pleasure but instead as a medical device. The main point is to help strengthen and lengthen pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor is a sling that cups and supports the bowel, bladder, and uterus in women and bladder and bowel for men. The hammock-like sling also plays a vital role in maintaining bowel and bladder control and sexual function and sensation. The best way to think of a dilator is as a vaginal expander that helps improve vaginal issues. The dilator medical comes with no side effects other than mild discomfort as you begin treatment and, over time, eases chronic vaginal pain. How long should you keep a dilator in? After inserting the vaginal dilator, the amount of time inside the vagina depends on your comfort level. Generally, the recommended amount of time is 20-30 minutes each session. The longer you insert the dilator, the more effective the treatment is over time. At first, you may have to hold the vagina dilatorl in place with your hand because your vaginal muscles may resist insertion. It's best to begin with the smallest dilator to avoid vaginal penetration pain that becomes overwhelming. If you think about pain on a scale of 1-10, with one being the lowest and ten the highest, your pain shouldn't be higher than three or four when dilating. As you progress with your vaginal therapy, you'll slowly increase the dilator size. If you have vaginal dilator issues when inserting, you may need a vaginal moisturizer to help with insertion. From the start, you may only be able to stretch the vagina for a few minutes each session. It's essential that you don't become discouraged and give yourself time to heal and allow the treatment to work. How often should you use dilators? Pelvic floor rehabilitation takes time to be effective. You will need more than a few sessions to feel sexual health relief. It's recommended that pelvic floor physical therapy occur 1-2 times a day. As your muscle tension decreases and you have less pelvic pain, you can decrease how often you should use dilators. Scar tissue from radiation therapy may take longer to heal, so daily treatment is necessary. Or you may feel less pain during sexual intercourse, so you undergo pelvic floor therapy four times a week, instead of twice a day. Your progress is personal and depends on your individual needs and situation. But, generally, you'll need to use dilators once or twice a day to stop experiencing painful penetration. What are dilators used for? Vaginal dilator therapy is safe and effective for many different female sexual medicine health concerns, including: Vaginal stenosis Vulvodynia Vulvar vestibulitis Vaginal atrophy Menopause Pudendal Neuralgia Pelvic radiation therapy Vaginismus Dyspareunia Vaginal agenesis Reassignment surgery If you suspect you're suffering from any above conditions, check with your healthcare professional before starting treatment. Vaginal atrophy Vaginal atrophy is extreme dryness in the vaginal tissues and cavities. The condition may also alter the shape of the vagina and cause vaginal tissue thinning. These can cause pain during sexual activity, make tampon insertion unbearable, and pelvic exams painful. Vaginal atrophy occurs for different reasons; the most common is during menopause. Menopause is a natural condition that usually affects women in their early 50s. The reason for menopause is when the sex hormone estrogen plummets, resulting in painful symptoms and one of them being vaginal atrophy. Dilator physical therapy helps bring moisture by rejuvenating dry tissue and widening and expanding the pelvic muscles. Radiation Therapy Pelvic radiation therapy is a standard cancer treatment for women and men. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center describes pelvic radiation uses intense energy beams to target and break up cancer cells. The precision of the radiation therapy as a cancer treatment is effective, yet it may result in vaginal atrophy. Improves Sex Life Having a healthy sex life is vital for most adults. It brings about feelings of vitality and youthfulness at any age. Painful sex, on the other hand, brings about feelings of sadness and shame. The end result is avoiding sex altogether, resulting in loneliness, sexual frustration, and harmed relationships. Vaginal dilators help improve sex lives by making it possible to experience less pain during sexual intercourse. The pelvic wand therapy gives you confidence and flushes healthy energy and blood throughout your pelvic area. Type of Vaginal Dilators The good news is that there are various types of dilators to choose from. However, not every dilator may be equally effective. Research scientists showed that in a randomized, double-blind study, the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators decreased pain levels by 28% higher during the cotton swab test than standard dilators. Dilator choices include the following: VuVa Smooth Vaginal Dilators: The medical grade plastic vaginal dilators are smooth and come in smaller to larger sized choices. VuVa™ Silicone Vaginal Dilators: This dilator set is the opposite of rigid plastic vaginal dilators. The high-quality silicone comes in fun colors, incredibly soft and porous, making insertion silky and comfortable. Deluxe Neodymium Magnetic Vaginal Dilators: As the top of the line in vaginal dilators, you’ll be amazed at the quality and effectiveness of these dilators. Each dilator set has over 60 neodymium magnets that gently draw out the negative ions in the vagina to flush freshly oxygenated blood throughout the pelvic area. Dilator therapy helps improve pelvic health and female sexuality. They are used to help a wide variety of female health concerns. Speak to your doctor today about how dilator therapy can help you. 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 Dilator Company 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. Podcast Episode 22: Tara Langdale-Schmidt What’s on Your Vagenda? Click here
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What is an Imperforate Hymen? How do you treat it?
An imperforate hymen is the name for the condition in which a thin fleshy membrane (your hymen) covers the vaginal opening fully, rather than just partially. The hymen is present until sporting activities, sexual intercourse or tampons cause it to stretch, tear or wear away. When the membrane is as it should be, it will have one or more openings within it to let menstrual blood and vaginal secretions pass through, and it will not stretch across the entire vaginal opening. An imperforate hymen will not have openings in it, so it seals the vaginal opening. Obviously this becomes an obstacle to the body’s processes and must therefore be treated. Imperforate hymen is classed as a congenital disorder. In other words, it is something you are born with. Imperforate hymens are not particularly common and the causes are unknown, but fortunately it is easy enough to correct the problem. What are the signs of imperforate hymen? Many girls with imperforate hymen are unaware of this until they reach puberty and their menstrual cycle starts. Doctors can diagnose it soon after a female baby is born, but it is not always noticed at this time. A girl may find that she has an imperforate hymen if her first menstrual period does not appear to occur, because the blood flow is unable to exit the vaginal opening. She may get a sensation of fullness in her lower abdomen or the pelvic area since the blood will have built up in her vagina. Naturally this can lead to discomfort in the form of stomach pain or backache; she might also have problems passing urine, or pain on passing stools. If an imperforate hymen is suspected, a trip to the Doctor for a pelvic examination will be necessary. This is a simple process in which your Doctor should be able to confirm the presence of an imperforate hymen quickly. You may also be referred for a pelvic ultrasound scan to confirm it, and to rule out other potential issues that could be causing your symptoms. Treating an imperforate hymen Fortunately, treating an imperforate hymen is quite simple. It is a minor procedure consisting of a small incision in the hymen to let the blood pass through. A small ring may be temporarily inserted to keep the vagina open, if your Doctor deems it necessary. Alternatively, you can use vaginal dilators to keep the incision from closing up. You will only need to insert one for around fifteen minutes per day until it is healed. Dilators made in the USA are available at www.vuvatech.com Once this procedure is complete, you should have no further problems with your cycle and if it has not been completely removed, your hymen should stretch or tear, or gradually wear away over time (depending on the type and frequency of sporting activities, sexual intercourse and tampon use). If you (or your child) do have a surgical procedure to correct an imperforate hymen, rest assured that recovery is quick - healing should only take a few days. Such procedures are normally carried out around the time of puberty, although it is possible for it to be done shortly after birth. Ultimately this procedure is simple, safe and effective, and it will allow you to continue with life as normal a few days later. 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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How Long Should I use a Vaginal Dilator for Menopause? A Complete Dilator Instruction Guide
Menopause can be a difficult time for many women. One of the most challenging symptoms can be vaginal atrophy, which can cause dryness, irritation, and pain during sexual activity. Fortunately, vaginal dilators can help alleviate these symptoms and restore sexual health. But how do you know how long to keep a vaginal dilator in? In this complete guide, we'll answer that question and provide you with instructions on how to use a vaginal dilator. What is a Vaginal Dilator? A vaginal dilator is a medical device used to expand the vaginal walls. The dilators start very small are typically made of medical grade plastic and comes in various sizes. Using a vaginal dilator can help alleviate symptoms of vaginal atrophy, such as dryness and pain during intercourse. See Product See Product See Product See Product What is Vaginal Atrophy? Vaginal atrophy (atrophic vaginitis) is thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to your body having less estrogen. Vaginal atrophy occurs most often after menopause. Atrophy is symptom of menopause. Your quality of life can be greatly improved with vaginal estrogen and vaginal trainers/dilators. For many women, vaginal atrophy not only makes intercourse painful, but also leads to distressing urinary symptoms. Because of the interconnected nature of the vaginal and urinary symptoms of this condition, experts agree that a more accurate term for vaginal atrophy and its accompanying symptoms is "genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)." Symptoms of atrophic vaginitis With moderate to severe genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), you may experience the following vaginal and urinary signs and symptoms: Vaginal dryness Vaginal burning Vaginal discharge Genital itching Burning with urination Urgency with urination More urinary tract infections Urinary incontinence Light bleeding after intercourse Discomfort with intercourse Decreased vaginal lubrication during sexual activity Shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal How to Use a Vaginal Dilator If sexual activity is painful due to a pelvic pain condition or pelvic disorder, use dilators at least 1-2 times per day. If you skip a day it is okay. Take your time and breath. Here are some instructions by VuVa Dilator Company to help you with your pelvic therapy journey: Directions Before Using your VuVa™ Vaginal Dilators Wash dilators with a mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Let the dilators air dry. Vanicream Bar soap is a good option to clean dilators with. To Get Started In a private and comfortable place, lay on your back and put both knees up with your feet on the bed (no wider than your hips) or lay on your side and pull your legs up with a pillow between your knees. Lubricate the smallest VuVa™ Vaginal Dilator and vagina canal opening generously with a lubricant your choice. IMPORTANT: Do not use petroleum jelly (e.g., Vaseline). Slippery Stuff is water based and does not cause irritation. Keep all the dilators within reach. Finding the right size VuVa™ Vaginal Dilator can be tricky. If you find that you can only tolerate the tip going inside when using the smallest dilator, that’s ok and is not uncommon. However, if that is the case, it may be best that you start with the exercises (See the instructions below). Please do not force the dilator inside. Using gentle pressure, insert the smaller round end of the smallest dilator into your vagina. Make sure that the dilator shaft is inserted as deeply as is comfortable for you. Do not insert entire dilator -- leave the larger, round, flat end outside of vaginal opening. If there’s no discomfort (you can put the little one inside, squeeze and let go around it on the inside like you’re holding back gas and pee and take it out without any pain or irritation – not even a little bit), you need to use the next size bigger. You’re looking for minimal pain when you put the dilator in the vagina (pain level not more than a 1-2/10, with 0/10 being no pain and 10/10 the worst pain ever) —the type that you might just describe as “annoying” or “uncomfortable.” Moderate pain (pain levels 4-6/10) is too much, and severe pain (pain levels 7-10) should be avoided. Once you’ve found the proper size, please use your dilator 5-20 minutes twice/day. When you can actively insert and remove the dilator as well as contract and relax around it with no discomfort, move up to the next size. IMPORTANT - WOMEN: Do not walk around with dilator inserted. Do not use dilators during sexual intercourse. Do not sleep with dilator inserted. Wash the vaginal dilators after use with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Let them air dry. Use a VuVa™ Vaginal Dilator comparable to your partners size 20 minutes before intercourse to relax tight muscles and bring blood flow to the area. You have now created a relaxed environment for penetration. How Long Should You Keep a Vaginal Dilator In? The length of time you keep a vaginal dilator in depends on your comfort level. Some women may be able to tolerate wearing a dilator for up to 20 or 30 minutes, while others may only be able to tolerate it for a few minutes. It's essential to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. You can gradually increase the length of time you wear the dilator over time as part of your treatment therapy. 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 Benefits of Using a Vaginal Dilator Using a vaginal dilator can have numerous benefits, including: 1. Alleviating vaginal atrophy symptoms, such as dryness and pain. 2. Helping improve sexual health and function. 3. Restoring vaginal elasticity. Using a vaginal dilator can be a helpful tool for women experiencing vaginal atrophy symptoms. It's essential to talk to your doctor before using a dilator, determine the appropriate size for you, and take things at your own pace. Remember to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. By using a vaginal dilator, you can reclaim your sexual health and function. VuVa Dilator Company Helpful Links: See Product See Product See Product See Product
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Reasons to use Dilators after Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is a type of radiation treatment most often used to treat cancers, and occasionally other conditions such as heart problems. Although it is designed to treat many types of cancer, this article will focus on the side effects of brachytherapy in the pelvic region. We will explain why you need dilators after Brachytherapy in this area. Brachytherapy is often called internal radiation. This high-dose radiation treatment is applied locally, to the area afflicted by the cancer. Brachytherapy is delivered to the body through an applicator tube containing a small radioactive pellet. This enables delivery of the radiation as close to the cancer site as possible, thus mitigating damage to other tissues in the body. Brachytherapy is not used as often as external radiation, in which a machine delivers radiation to specific body parts through a beam. However, when you have Brachytherapy, the cancer is targeted with higher doses of radiation. This reduces overall treatment time and usually results in fewer side effects. Which pelvic cancers does Brachytherapy treat? As we mentioned above, Brachytherapy treats cancers all over the body. In the pelvic region it is used to treat: Cervical cancer Endometrial cancer Prostate cancer Rectal cancer Soft tissue sarcomas Vaginal cancer Your healthcare provider may combine brachytherapy with other radiation treatments or cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. It is sometimes delivered after surgery, and commonly to treat remaining cancer cells after other treatments. See Product See Product See Product See Product What are the side effects of Brachytherapy? The most common side effects of pelvic Brachytherapy affect the vagina, rectum, bowels and bladder. There can be short-term and long-term effects of brachytherapy, which we will outline below. Many people worry that this treatment will make them radioactive and thus a danger to others, but this is not the case. The body doesn’t retain and transmit radiation with brachytherapy. Brachytherapy side effects in the vagina Over the short-term, it is common to develop soreness and inflammation in the vagina after brachytherapy for gynecological cancers. You might experience increased vaginal discharge and be more prone to vaginal infections. The long-term side effects can be more serious. As your vaginal tissues begin to heal after radiation therapy, you can develop scar tissue and adhesions. Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that develop in the tissues, causing them to stick together. This has a tightening effect. Adhesions can occur between organs too, fusing them together. You may find that little blood vessels appear on the outside of the vagina, and are prone to bleeding. This treatment sometimes affects the process of lubrication in the vagina, causing dryness. The vaginal muscles may also harden and lose flexibility and elasticity. This has a tightening and shortening effect on the birth canal, which (along with dryness) makes sexual intercourse and gynecological examinations difficult and painful. When such conditions arise, it is called vaginal stenosis. This is why using vaginal dilators after brachytherapy is often recommended by Doctors. Brachytherapy side effects in the rectum Men or women who have had brachytherapy for rectal cancer may find that they bleed from the rectum afterwards for a while, and that the tissues are more sensitive and prone to tearing and inflammation. This can cause pain and discomfort when going to the toilet. Over the long-term, it is possible to experience: A fistula (drainage hole for infection created by the body) between the rectum and the bladder or vagina Anal stenosis Anal stenosis is the name for when the rectum shrinks in capacity, getting tighter and shorter. Like vaginal stenosis, it happens because of scar tissue forming adhesions in the rectum. This can make it difficult to pass stools, or lead to constipation and tearing (anal fissures). It can be helpful to use anal dilators after brachytherapy to keep these adhesions from forming. Unfortunately, having treatment in the rectum can cause side effects in the vagina because of the close proximity. We always recommend bathing or showering regularly, to keep the affected area clean. It might be an idea to avoid using tampons for a while, and any other substances that may exacerbate irritation or cause infection. To avoid discomfort, you may wish to use a natural lubricant during dilator therapy after brachytherapy. The same applies to sexual intercourse, since the treatment may have caused dryness. If you find that you are bleeding after brachytherapy, especially when having sex or using dilators, know that this is common. However, if it continues for an extended period or there are excessive amounts of blood, it would be best to consult your physician before continuing. Using dilators after brachytherapy is common practice. Although it might feel unfamiliar at first, it is simple, very safe, and effective for preventing or treating vaginal stenosis and anal stenosis. You should continue long term use of your dilators, using them regularly for maintenance even after your tissues appear to have stabilized. Resources Vuvatech.com/blogs/vuvagirlblog/vaginal-stenosis-understand-the-causes-and-symptoms Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/why-is-my-anus-tightening-understanding-anal-stenosis Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/5-treatment-options-for-anal-stenosis Ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/EDBK_320999 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 See Product See Product See Product See Product Brachytherapy side effects in the bowels Brachytherapy affects bowel function, causing loose stools and sometimes diarrhoea. This is likely to happen for a few days before returning to normal. However, for 1 in 5 women, there are long-term brachytherapy side effects in the bowels resulting in various changes to bowel function. These are often minimal and can be further mitigated through dietary changes if needed, along with drinking plenty of water to ensure proper hydration. Brachytherapy side effects in the bladder Short-term, you might feel burning when you urinate after having brachytherapy. Some notice an unusual odour in the urine too, which might indicate a bladder infection. Drinking lots of water should help to prevent or lessen these symptoms. Long-term side effects on the bladder may affect around 1 in 10 women after undergoing brachytherapy treatment. Most commonly this presents as blood in the urine. Fatigue Most people who undergo brachytherapy feels tired afterwards as the body works to rebuild damaged cells. Rest and recuperation time may be required during this phase, and normal activities can be resumed slowly. Do you need to use dilators after brachytherapy? Your Doctor will usually recommend using vaginal dilators after brachytherapy. This is sensible whether or not you have developed vaginal stenosis, since dilators are also a preventative measure. If you use dilators after brachytherapy, you will be able to prevent scar tissue and adhesions from forming in the first place. You will ensure that your vaginal capacity is maintained and that the tissues remain as supple and flexible as possible. The same applies to using rectal dilators after brachytherapy. If you have had this treatment for cancer of the rectum, you can prevent anal stenosis through rectal dilator therapy. Dilators work by gently stretching the tissues, which prevents scar tissue from taking hold and distorting the tissues. Dilator use also increases blood flow to the area, bringing many healing benefits. Our Neodymium magnetic dilators work even better than normal dilators for increasing blood flow to your tissues, which in turn calms irritated nerves and relieves pain. What else can you do to treat Brachytherapy side effects?
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Sex Hurts My Vagina: What’s Going On?
Why does sex hurt my vagina? Unfortunately the answer to this question may not be straightforward, but we are here to help you pinpoint the cause. If you’re wondering why sex hurts your vagina, it’s likely that you have not yet discovered an imbalance somewhere in your body, or perhaps even in your psyche. Painful sex is all too common, but not all women feel comfortable exploring the avenues that will lead to respite. This is often because it can mean being vulnerable in front of a range of different people, from professionals to romantic partners – and these things don’t always feel comfortable. However, if your vagina hurts during sex, seeking assistance may be necessary. Depending on the cause of painful sex, it might not go away on its own, and suffering in silence long term is just not a sensible option. In this article we aim to shed some light on the issue by answering some of the most important questions about painful sex. Read on to find out why sex is painful, what it feels like and what you can do about it… Is it normal to have pain during sex? Ultimately, experiencing pain in life is ‘normal’, as nobody gets through life without any. However, pain is a messenger. It is there to tell you that something is wrong, so it should get your attention. It should never be dismissed as “just one of those things”, even if it is only intermittent (as opposed to consistent or prolonged). To put things into perspective, if sex hurts your vagina, you are one of millions of women who feel pain before, during, and after sex. Studies indicate that it happens to up to 18% of women around the world, with lifetime estimates ranging between 10 and 28%. The name for this problem is dyspareunia, and it comes from the Greek word dyspareunos, which translates to "badly mated". Anything that takes the enjoyment out of one of our most natural forms of intimacy (and of course the necessary route to procreation) should be treated as a problem. See Product See Product See Product See Product Why does sex hurt my vagina? When you first research the possible reasons why sex hurts, things can get confusing. The causes of painful sex are abundant, and pain is an abstract thing. It’s not always easy to describe, and sometimes the origin of the pain is difficult to pinpoint. This is especially true when it is happening inside the body. Below we have outlined the most likely reasons sex hurts your vagina: Vaginismus Painful intercourse is commonly caused by a condition called vaginismus, in which women experience a persistent or recurring difficulty in allowing vaginal penetration. Even the prospect of penetration can cause the muscles to tighten involuntarily, leading to pain during sex, or making sex impossible. Vulvodynia Vulvodynia is another gynecological condition that causes painful sex in women. It is characterized by severe pain in the vulvar area, and experts have not found a definitive cause. Lack of lubrication during sex If your vagina hurts when you have sex, it could simply be that you are not lubricated enough. Doing whatever is necessary to increase desire levels is a good place to start, but you may need some assistance in the form of water-based personal lubricant. Menopause When we go through the menopause our hormone levels naturally start to decline, so we have less estrogen present. Initially this can lead to a lack of libido, but also less lubrication and blood flow to the vagina. Both of these things can make sex less comfortable or enjoyable, and the result maybe pain in the vagina. Some women may develop vaginal atrophy after the menopause, which can tighten and shorten the birth canal, and cause inflammation of the tissues. Trauma or injury to the pelvic area Sometimes trauma or injury to the pelvic area can lead to pain in your vagina during intercourse. For instance, tears to the flesh during childbirth, any kind of accident in the pelvic area, or pelvic surgery. Side effects from medications Certain medications may cause unwanted side effects, including dyspareunia. This is often because, as with estrogen drops, desire and lubrication are inhibited. If you are experiencing this and it seems unusual (or you have been on long term medication) it is worth checking the side effects with your Doctor and perhaps switching to something else if possible. Skin disorders or infections Some causes of painful sex are more obvious, although you might not have been given an official diagnosis. For example, eczema or UTIs, sexually transmitted infections, or lichen sclerosus (a condition that causes the skin on to become inflamed and scaly). Radiation or chemotherapy Cancer treatments can have a negative impact on a woman’s sex life, for various reasons. They can lead to physical changes such as vaginal atrophy (also known as atrophic vaginitis), scarring and adhesions, lack of libido, dryness and tearing of the tissues. Even anal radiation can cause vaginal side effects. All of these things could cause pain in your vagina when you have sex. What does pain during sex feel like? Sexual pain symptoms can feel quite different for different people. We all have varying tolerance levels for pain and perceptions of it. However, if you experience any of the below sensations before, during or after sexual intercourse, your pain could be classified as dyspareunia: Aching sensations Uncomfortable tightness Cramping (akin to menstrual cramps) Burning pains Searing or stabbing pains Stinging General irritation, itching and inflammation (vaginitis) You might experience dyspareunia pain in your vagina, your bladder, or your urethra. It can happen during foreplay, penetration or even afterwards (despite not having pain during sex). The pain could be felt superficially or deep inside your vagina, and it might only happen some of time, or with certain people, or in specific situations. If the latter two possibilities sound familiar, your painful intercourse may have a psychological root. What is the best treatment for painful sex? Vaginal dilators (also called vaginal trainers) are proven to be one of the best ways to improve your sex life. Dilators treat painful sex by helping your vagina to become accustomed to penetration. They can desensitize it in instances of vaginismus and vulvodynia, and when necessary, expand or restore vaginal capacity. These tube-shaped tools are a clinically proven medical solution for painful sex. See Product See Product See Product See Product Relieving sexual pain with vaginal dilators is definitely possible, and in fact well documented in clinical studies. Depending on the issue you’re dealing with, dilators can ease the vaginal pain and discomfort associated with sexual intercourse, since they can gently stretch tight tissues and increase blood flow to the area. You can use them at your own pace, working up through the sizes according to your capacity and progress. VuVatech magnetic dilators are one of the most trusted home treatments for dyspareunia. A double-blind placebo study by Physician Care Clinical Research demonstrated that 80% of participants confirmed that their pain dramatically diminished after using our magnetic vaginal dilators. We hope that this article has been helpful, and as always we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have about our dilators. Resources Vuvatech.com/pages/vaginal-dilator-how-to-use Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/how-to-avoid-painful-sex-5-helpful-tips Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/painful-intercourse-medical-term-dyspareunia-causes-treatments Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5638059/ 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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5 Natural Remedies for Levator Ani Syndrome
If you are suffering from discomfort in the rectal area (rectal spasms in particular), you may have a condition known as levator ani syndrome. Rectal pain is not just physically uncomfortable; it’s also a major source of worry for most, since they can’t always locate or easily manipulate the sore points. Therefore it may not be clear what is causing the problem. Understandably, we often don’t want to discuss problems in the anal area – even with a Doctor. This may prolong getting a diagnosis and finding suitable treatment. However, it is difficult to live with pain in general, and pain in the pelvic region can be overwhelming, especially when it is frequent. It is important not to leave it to get better on its own, as symptoms of levator ani syndrome can be persistent and ongoing. If you are looking for ways to relieve pain in the rectum, read on for information on 5 natural remedies for levator ani syndrome. They may just change your life! See Product See Product See Product See Product What is levator ani syndrome? The levator ani is a thin but wide muscle group located on both sides of the pelvis, and it makes up part of your pelvic floor. It consists of the pubococcygeus, iliococcygeus, and puborectalis muscles. Levator ani syndrome is a form of pelvic floor dysfunction. In men, the pelvic floor supports the rectum, bladder, and urethra. In women, it’s the rectum, vagina and uterus. There are many possible disorders of the pelvic floor, but this specific disorder affects the muscles of the anus. Although anal pain can affect both males and females, levator ani syndrome is more common in women. Levator ani syndrome is also referred to in several other ways, including chronic anorectal pain, levator spasm and pelvic tension myalgia. Put simply, if you have this syndrome, your pelvic floor muscles are too tight, and this is causing discomfort. In this case, the problem results in painfully tight anal muscles and other concurrent symptoms, which we’ll cover below. Why do I have rectal pain? Without an official diagnosis for levator ani syndrome it is not easy to be totally sure. However, if you are having muscle spasms near to the anus, there is a strong possibility you have it. The levator ani muscle goes into spasm, causing pain that may spread outward to the tailbone, hips and sometimes beyond. Although levator ani syndrome doesn’t have a definitive cause, probabilities include: Vaginal atrophy Vulvodynia Continuing to have painful sex (dyspareunia) Holding onto urine or stools when they need to be passed Sexual abuse Pelvic injury (usually surgery or trauma) Endometriosis Interstitial cystitis IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) Since levator ani pain is not solely linked to passing stools, you will experience it at other times. Nor are the symptoms caused by structural abnormalities, thus the syndrome can be considered a type of muscular dysfunction of the rectum. If you only feel pain during bowel movements, you may have anal fissures or another rectal disorder. In this case, a qualified healthcare provider should diagnose it for you. How do I know if I have levator ani syndrome? Of all the symptoms of levator ani syndrome, the most common is pain. Levator ani muscle discomfort can present as frequent or constant dull pain and spasm in the rectum. The pain might come and go, and it can stay for hours and even days. It is often triggered or exacerbated by extensive periods of sitting or lying down. You might find that your rectal pain feels higher up, or that the left side is more tender than the right. You may have lower back pain, pain in the groin, and even the thighs. Levator ani syndrome in men may also present as pain in the testicles, prostate and tip of the penis. Other symptoms include: Pain in the coccyx region when defecating Feeling bloated Urgency and frequency of urination (but sometimes difficulty releasing it) Urinary incontinence Pain during and after sex/painful ejaculation Erectile dysfunction See Product See Product See Product See Product Natural remedies for levator ani syndrome There are several great natural levator ani syndrome treatments available to you. Here are 5 of our favorites: VuVa Neodymium rectal dilators VuVa rectal dilators have so many benefits. They lengthen soft tissue while helping the muscles and ligaments to relax, making the rectum easier to open. These patented rectal dilators contain Neodymium magnets, which are there to increase the blood flow to the rectum. This calms the nerves and reduces pain. Our rectal dilators are the only ones to contain these powerful pain-relieving Neodymium magnets, which makes them the best rectal dilators on the market. Ayurvedic herbs Many people are able to relieve levator ani pain with ayurvedic herbs. The most commonly used herbs are: Yograj Guggul Avipattikar Churna (a blend of various herbs) Arogyavardhini Vati (a blend of various herbs) Navkarshik Churna (a blend of various herbs) Dhanwantaram oil (a blend of various oils) Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera) Herbs are some of the best natural treatments for levator ani syndrome since they can calm the central nervous system and other bodily systems that affect this muscle group. Ayurvedic herbs can also relax nerves and muscles, strengthen the neuromuscular system and boost the immune system. Some are helpful for treating spasms, cleansing the bowel and improving its functions, and others are good for relieving pain. If you are interested in treating levator ani syndrome with ayurvedic herbs, it is best to consult a qualified practitioner. A hot castor oil pack (to relax the muscles) You can use your fingers to massage cold-pressed castor oil in a horseshoe shape, as follows: The base of the right sitz bone Up to the tailbone Across the sacrum Down to the bottom of the left sitz bone Heat it with a parabolic electric dish or infrared heater Alternatively you can soak a cloth in the oil, apply it to the skin, cover it with plastic to keep the oil in place, and heat it with a hot water bottle for between 10 and 30 minutes. The heat will warm the oil, helping it to penetrate the rectal muscles. Magnesium (to relax the muscles) Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant with a wide range of other health benefits. You can use transdermal magnesium (magnesium chloride) to apply topically, since oral magnesium supplements may irritate the colon or have a laxative effect (except for nanoparticle magnesium, which needs no digestion). Alternatively, soak in a hot bath containing 2oz magnesium oil, or 1oz and a cup of Epsom salts. This way the magnesium can enter your body through the skin, while the heat also relaxes your muscles. Pelvic floor physical therapy or A.R.T If you don’t want to take matters into your own hands, or you’re not finding sufficient relief this way, it might be a good idea to find a practitioner who can help. You may wish to get in touch with a bodywork therapist trained in myofascial release techniques or Active Release Technique (A.R.T.). We highly recommend finding a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, who may also be able to diagnose the issue in the first place. They will be able to tell you whether you have tight or weak muscles, offer treatment and give you protocols to follow at home. Natural remedies for levator ani syndrome should provide you with sufficient relief from your pain and discomfort. However, it may be sensible to get a proper evaluation, and in some instances, professional treatment. Whichever route you take, it is absolutely possible to recover from levator ani syndrome, so don’t give up! Resources Vuvatech.com/pages/how-to-use-rectal-dilators Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/reasons-you-might-need-rectal-dilators-and-how-to-relax-anal-muscles Vuvatech.com/pages/levator-ani-syndrome-anal-muscle-spasms Listentoyourgut.com/rectal-spasm-and-levator-ani-syndrome/ Planetayurveda.com/library/herbal-remedies-for-levator-ani-syndrome/ 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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Are There Any Vitamins For Vulvodynia?
The pain of vulvodynia is enough for most women to open their minds to a range of different treatments, but one thing is for sure: finding and treating the cause of any condition is always far better than masking symptoms with pain killers. It’s true that diet and nutrition may have a part to play in vulvodynia symptoms, but that doesn’t mean they cause the symptoms in the first place. It simply means that you can make wiser dietary choices that won’t exacerbate your symptoms, and that certain vitamins for vulvodynia can ease your symptoms. We have written many articles addressing the probable causes of vulvodynia, as well as a wide range of treatment options. Therefore we won’t outline those again in this article; we will simply mention that dietary factors such as high oxalate content can exacerbate the problem, and give you the heads up on the vitamins that can help vulvodynia… Why do you need vitamins for vulvodynia? Before we go any further, we recommend you swot up on the basics of the vulvodynia diet so you know which foods have a high oxalate content (in other words, the ones to avoid) and which ones have a low oxalate (the ones that are good for you). When implemented in conjunction with the best supplements for vulvodynia, you are giving your body that much-needed head start to healing. The reason vitamins and minerals can help vulvodynia is that lots of women who suffer with this condition are lacking in the essential nutrients for optimal function of the tissues in the vulva, vagina and pelvis. By replenishing some of these vital nutritional elements through supplementation, you can restore normal balance to these tissues, thus alleviating your symptoms. Which vitamins and supplements relieve vulvodynia symptoms? Firstly let’s take a look at the vitamin and mineral deficiencies that specialists consistently discover in the tissues of vulvodynia sufferers: Vitamin D Omega-3 fatty acids B vitamins Magnesium Other antioxidants Many specialists agree that there are quite a few vitamins and supplements that will help relieve vulvodynia pain. Some of the top recommendations are: Magnesium Vitamin D3 Probiotics Vitamin B12 Omega-3 fatty acids In particular, omega-3 (3000mg total each day in 2 to 3 doses), vitamin D3 (between 2000iu and 5000iu per day and in conjunction with vitamin K2) and anti-inflammatory polyphenols (2 capsules per day) are particularly effective at reducing chronic pain. Magnesium citrate has an essential role in nerve health and maintaining normal function, as well as decreasing inflammation. For vulvodynia you can take ½ to 1 teaspoon with liquid of your choice each day. See Product See Product See Product See Product Other vitamins and minerals that help vulvodynia Calcium citrate is easily absorbed and in appropriate amounts it can inhibit the growth of oxalate crystals. High oxalate levels in the urine are thought to irritate the vulva, as is the case with accumulated oxalate crystals in the vulvar tissues. Furthermore, a combination of grape seed extract, turmeric extract and other antioxidants may also neutralize free radicals, thus inhibiting oxidative damage. This combination can also block an enzyme involved in the inflammatory response. The protocol outlined in this article may be informative. Although we have given you an overview, taking supplements and vitamins for vulvodynia may require a personalized protocol dependent on your symptoms, state of health and medical history. You should therefore always consult a qualified specialist before embarking on any treatment protocols… and as always, research products and suppliers carefully to make sure you’re getting the right type and the best possible quality. We wish you every success with your recovery! 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
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Using Vaginal Dilators and Replens Products for Vaginal Atrophy
They can really help? The menopause can be a testing transitional period for women. It comes with a whole host of unpleasant symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings, but one of the most challenging symptoms is vaginal atrophy. Vaginal atrophy affects around half of all menopausal women, and it happens when your body stops making estrogen. This causes thinned, dry and inflamed vaginal wall tissue, which can make sex difficult and even painful. You may experience a shortening and tightening of the birth canal, leading to further difficulties having intercourse. It’s also likely that you’ll be unable to produce sufficient lubrication, and you may experience some bleeding during or after sex. Vaginal atrophy symptoms also include burning or urgency when urinating, itching, discharge, urinary tract infections and even incontinence. If you are suffering from vaginal atrophy you may be searching for some form of relief so that you can return to a normal sex life… if so, read on. VuvaTech are here to help! Why use vaginal dilators with Replens products? If you use vaginal dilators in combination with a vaginal moisturizer you are likely to get much more relief from vaginal atrophy symptoms. Below is a summary of both vaginal atrophy treatments: Vaginal dilator therapy Using vaginal dilators to treat vaginal atrophy is a popular choice, since they are both natural and completely safe. You can use vaginal dilators in the privacy and comfort of your own home, at your own pace. Vaginal dilators are tube-shaped devices that can gently and gradually stretch open the vagina if it has tightened or shortened, restoring normal function. Vaginal dilators also help prevent scarring and can increase vaginal lubrication. Vaginal Dilators made in the USA are available at www.vuvatech.com VuVa magnetic vaginal dilators come in a set of graduated sizes. The smallest one is around the same size as your pinky finger, and you can become accustomed to the different sizes over time. We particularly recommend magnetic dilators because they improve blood flow to the vaginal tissues and calm the nerves, which leads to easier penetration and pain relief. Replens Vaginal Moisturizers It’s a great idea to use natural and water-based lubricants while using vaginal dilators and during sexual activity. Replens is a clinically proven vaginal moisturizer that eases vaginal dryness, so it is the perfect choice for sex or dilator use. Replens users have reported greater comfort and renewed sexual enjoyment, and it is even recommended by Doctors as the top vaginal moisturizer on the market. Multiple clinical studies were conducted and all demonstrated that Replens is a highly effective solution for vaginal dryness and other vaginal atrophy symptoms. See Product See Product See Product See Product Further advice for women with vaginal atrophy It’s normal for women to hesitate over consulting a Doctor about their vaginal atrophy symptoms. If you feel embarrassed about changes down there, it helps to remember that healthcare professionals see this kind of thing all the time, so there is no judgment. It is better not to suffer in silence, as the symptoms can be painful and worrying. Likewise, allowing symptoms to worsen could delay a return to normal sexual intimacy. Your doctor can confirm an atrophy diagnosis at a simple check-up and pelvic examination. We thought you might also be interested in these other vaginal atrophy treatments you can do at home. Ultimately your health and wellbeing is in your hands, so you will need to commit to finding the right treatment for you. Don’t worry – it’s not so difficult to restore the quality of your life during and after menopause, once you know how! Menopause is not the end of the road – it’s merely an obstacle to overcome. Get in touch if you have any questions about vaginal dilators and moisturizers… as always, we’ll be more than happy to help! 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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Does A Pap Smear Hurt?
What is Pap smear test? The Papanicolaou test (commonly abbreviated to Pap test or Pap smear, or referred to as cervical smear or screening) is a screening test that detects potentially precancerous and cancerous cellular changes in the cervix. Women aged between 21 and 64 are invited every three to five years for a test to keep ensure cervical health. Virgins have low risk of cervical cancer, but it’s still possible to contract HPV (human papillomavirus), which is usually transmitted through sexual intercourse. HPV is a virus that can lead to cancer, and even though virgin haven’t had sex, it is still possible that you have HPV passed on through parents or because of smoking, for example. Therefore virgins may still need to get a smear test done. As smear tests are famous for not being the most pleasant experience - even when women are used to sex - virgins often wonder whether a Pap smear test will hurt them. In this article we will explain what you can expect as a virgin having a smear test. Does a Pap smear test hurt if you’re a virgin? The reality is that a Pap smear test can hurt whether or not you are a virgin. It shouldn’t usually be painful if everything as it should be physically and you have no vaginal soreness or infections; however, most women do find it a little uncomfortable. There may be variables such as how gentle the Doctor or nurse is, and whether you are anxious and tightening the vaginal muscles involuntarily. For virgins a Pap smear might hurt a bit because the speculum is opened up inside them, which is a sensation they won’t be used to. However, even if it hurts a little the first time it is likely to be bearable. The key is to remember that it will be over quickly and to try and stay as relaxed as possible, perhaps even chatting to the Doctor or nurse throughout to take your mind off the procedure. How is a Pap smear done? The cervical screening test is designed to collect cells from your cervix (the lower end of the uterus). The cells are then analyzed in a lab to find out whether there are any abnormal cells and determine the likelihood of developing cancer. In order to collect the cells, the Doctor needs to insert a speculum (a duck bill shaped device that opens up once inserted) into the vagina. They will then gradually open the speculum to give access to the cervix. Next they will take a swab, which you may be able to feel but it’s usually just a slightly uncomfortable sensation. You can always bring a vaginal dilator with you and use it before the doctor inserts the speculum to relax muscles before exam. VuVa dilators can be used before an exam to ease discomfort. See Product See Product See Product See Product VuVa Dilators are made in the USA and ship discreetly. Shop Now at www.vuvatech.com The sample is sent away and checked for specific high-risk types of human papillomavirus. If these are not present you will not need to have any further tests done, and you’ll be invited for another smear test at the appropriate time (some years later). If a high-risk strain of HPV is present, the sample will then be checked for cellular changes, and treatment may be required. So the bottom line is that a Pap smear test can hurt a little if you’re a virgin, but it should really only be uncomfortable, and it certainly won’t be unbearable. Most women see smear tests as ‘something to get through’ and over time you’ll get used to them, so they probably won’t feel quite as stressful! We hope you found this article informative, and don’t forget to check out the other articles in our blog, which contains a vast range of topics on women’s sexual health. Is intercourse painful as well? Learn more about VuVa Vaginal Dilator Therapy and Dyspareunia here. 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 40,000 women all over the globe. She patented the Neodymium Vaginal Dilator, that is clinically proven to help with blood flow and nerve pain. See Product See Product See Product See Product
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We create safe, effective products that truly work — designed to help you relax, restore balance, and feel good in your body again. Our VuVa® Pelvic Floor Support Sets gently calm nerves, ease tension, and support natural pelvic healing from the inside out.
