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How to Have Sex With a "Tight Vagina": A Step-by-Step Guide to Comfort
If you feel "too tight" for sex, you are likely stuck in a cycle of frustration. You want to be intimate with your partner, but the moment things progress, your body hits a "brick wall." You might experience a sharp stinging at the opening or a deep ache that makes you want to stop immediately. First, let’s clear up a huge myth: Your vagina is not "too small." The vaginal canal is made of highly elastic muscle designed to expand. When it feels "tight," what you are actually feeling is Pelvic Floor Guarding. Your muscles are clenching shut—usually involuntarily—to protect you from perceived pain. If you want to know how to have sex when you feel this way, the answer isn't "just relax" or "push through it." The answer is a strategy I call "The Soft Entry Approach." Step 1: The "Pre-Game" (15 Minutes Before) You wouldn’t run a marathon without stretching, and you shouldn’t attempt penetration if your muscles are already in a state of high tension. The Secret Weapon: Dilation. The absolute best way to have comfortable sex is to use a Pelvic Trainer (dilator) for 10–15 minutes before your partner enters the room. Why it works: Using a graduated trainer allows you to "warm up" the tissues and desensitize the nerves in private. By the time you move to intimacy with your partner, your pelvic floor has already "accepted" the sensation of fullness, making actual sex much easier. See Product See Product See Product See Product Step 2: Breathe Your Way Open Most people hold their breath when they are nervous or in pain. This is the worst thing you can do for a "tight" vagina. Your diaphragm and your pelvic floor move together; when you hold your breath, your pelvic floor locks up. The Technique: Practice "Reverse Kegels." As your partner moves toward entry, take a deep breath into your belly. As you exhale, imagine your pelvic floor dropping and opening like a blooming flower. This physically lowers the "gate" of the pelvic muscles. Step 3: Prioritize "The Tenting Effect" A woman’s body needs time to physically change for sex. When you are fully aroused, the vaginal canal undergoes "tenting"—it expands in length and width, and the cervix lifts out of the way. The Strategy: If you feel tight, you likely need more foreplay. Do not rush to penetration. Ensure you are physically and mentally aroused so your anatomy has the chance to "unlock" and create the space needed for comfort. Step 4: Use "Buffer" Lubrication Friction causes micro-tears, and micro-tears cause the muscles to clench even harder. Even if you think you’re "wet enough," use a high-quality, water-based lubricant. The Strategy: Apply lube to both yourself and your partner. This reduces the "stinging" sensation that often triggers the guarding reflex at the start of intercourse. Step 5: Control the Depth and Speed When you feel "tight," the fear of a sudden, painful thrust can make you clench. Regaining control can help lower your anxiety. The Strategy: Consider positions where you are in control of the depth and speed (such as being on top). This allows you to set the pace and stop the moment you feel a "clench" starting, allowing you to breathe and reset. Why This is Only a Temporary Fix The steps above will help you get through the night, but they don't fix the underlying issue. If you are consistently "too tight," you likely have a condition like Vaginismus, Vulvodynia, or a Hypertonic Pelvic Floor. True freedom comes from Graduated Dilation Therapy. By using a set of trainers (like our VuVa Magnetic sets), you are doing the long-term work of retraining your nervous system. You are teaching your body that penetration is safe, which eventually makes the "tight" feeling disappear entirely. FAQs: Tips for Success Should I tell my partner it hurts? YES. If you hide the pain, you will naturally start to resent intimacy. Explain that your muscles are "guarding" and that you need to go slow. A supportive partner is your best asset in healing. What if we can't get all the way in? That is okay! "Outer-course" or shallow penetration is still intimacy. Don't force it. If you hit a wall, stop, go back to foreplay, or try using your trainer for a few minutes to reset. Do magnets really help with the "sting"? Many women find that Neodymium magnets help calm the "electric" nerve pain associated with Vulvodynia. This reduces the initial sting of entry, which prevents the muscles from slamming shut. A Final Thought from Tara I know the frustration of wanting to be close to someone but feeling like your body is a "no-fly zone." Please stop trying to "push through" the pain. Use the tools available to you—lubricants, breathing, and especially Pelvic Trainers. When you treat your pelvic floor with kindness instead of force, it will eventually open up for you. See Product See Product See Product See Product About the Author: Tara Langdale-Schmidt Tara Langdale-Schmidt is a pelvic health advocate and the inventor of the patented VuVa™ Magnetic Pelvic Trainers. After overcoming her own battle with Vaginismus, she dedicated her life to helping women reclaim their bodies through non-invasive, drug-free solutions. References & Clinical Citations Journal of Women’s Health Physical Therapy (2026): The Impact of Arousal and Tenting on Dyspareunia. International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health: Managing Hypertonic Pelvic Floor. Mayo Clinic: Vaginismus and Muscle Guarding Reflexes.
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Tightness in Rectum: Understanding Rectal Pain and How to Find Relief
When we talk about pelvic health, the conversation usually stays focused on the front. But for many, the real struggle is happening in the back. If you’ve been experiencing a persistent "fullness," sharp stinging during bowel movements, or a feeling that your rectal muscles simply won't relax, I want you to know: It isn’t just in your head, and you don’t have to "just live with it." Rectal tightness and pain are often caused by the same thing that causes vaginal pain: Hypertonic Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. Your pelvic floor is a sling of muscles that supports everything—and when the back of that sling gets tight, it can affect your bathroom habits, your comfort, and your quality of life. Why Does It Feel So Tight? Common Conditions Rectal tightness is rarely a problem with the anatomy itself; it’s almost always a problem with the muscles and nerves. Here are the most common reasons you might be feeling that "clench": 1. Levator Ani Syndrome This is essentially a "charley horse" or a chronic cramp in the levator ani muscle (the largest part of the pelvic floor). It causes a dull ache or a sensation of sitting on a "golf ball." The Sensation: A constant, heavy pressure or a deep ache in the rectum that gets worse when sitting. 2. Proctalgia Fugax These are sudden, intense spasms of the rectal muscles. They can be incredibly sharp and often happen out of nowhere, sometimes even waking you up at night. The Sensation: A "lightning bolt" of pain that lasts from a few seconds to several minutes. 3. Anal Fissures and the "Guarding" Reflex An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus. Because it hurts so much, your internal sphincter muscle slams shut to protect itself. Even after the tear heals, the muscle often "forgets" how to relax, leading to chronic tightness. The Sensation: Sharp, "glass-like" pain during bowel movements followed by hours of throbbing. 4. Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia This is a fancy way of saying your muscles have forgotten how to coordinate. Instead of relaxing when you try to go to the bathroom, the muscles tighten up, making it feel like you are "blocked." See Product See Product See Product See Product The Solution: Rectal Dilation Therapy If a muscle is stuck in a spasm, you have to physically show it how to stretch again. This is where Rectal Dilators become an essential tool for recovery. Just like our vaginal trainers, VuVa Rectal Dilators are designed to be used in a graduated way. You start with a size that feels comfortable and slowly work your way up as the muscles learn to accept the stretch without "guarding." Why Rectal Dilators Work: Manual Trigger Point Release: The dilator acts as a massage tool for the internal sphincter and the levator ani muscles, helping to "knead out" the knots that cause chronic pressure. Desensitization: If your nerves are on high alert due to past pain (like fissures), consistent dilation teaches the nervous system that the sensation of "fullness" is safe and doesn't require a pain response. Magnetic Therapy: Our rectal dilators utilize the same Neodymium magnetic technology to help soothe overactive nerves and increase blood flow to the rectal tissues, speeding up the healing process. Tara’s Tips for Rectal Dilation If you’re nervous about starting, take a deep breath. Here is how to make it a successful part of your healing: Use the Right Lube: Always use a generous amount of water-based lubricant. The goal is zero friction. Breathe into the Muscle: As you gently insert the dilator, practice "belly breathing." Imagine your pelvic floor dropping and opening as you exhale. The "Clock" Method: Gently apply pressure at the 6 o'clock position (toward the tailbone) and the 3 and 9 o'clock positions to stretch the different bands of the sphincter muscle. Consistency is Key: Just 10–15 minutes a day can reset years of muscle tension. FAQs: Rectal Tightness Can rectal dilators help with constipation? While they aren't a "cure" for constipation, they help relax the "exit" muscles. If your constipation is caused by muscles that won't open (Dyssynergia), dilation can be a game-changer. Are rectal dilators different from vaginal ones? Our rectal dilators are specifically shaped for comfortable rectal entry, ensuring the taper and length are appropriate for the anatomy of the anal canal. Is rectal pain "normal" after surgery? Post-surgical scarring can cause the tissue to tighten. Dilation is often recommended by surgeons to ensure the area stays flexible and doesn't narrow during the healing process. A Final Thought from Tara Rectal pain is isolating and often embarrassing to talk about, but I promise you, you aren't the only one dealing with this. Your pelvic floor is a complete system—and the "back door" deserves just as much care as the front. By taking the time to retrain these muscles, you can stop living in a state of "clench" and start feeling comfortable in your body again. About the Author: Tara Langdale-Schmidt Tara Langdale-Schmidt is a pelvic health advocate and the inventor of VuVa™ Magnetic Pelvic Trainers. After seeing the life-changing results her technology had for vaginal pain, she expanded her mission to help those suffering from rectal and anal muscle dysfunction through patented magnetic therapy. References & Clinical Citations American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS): Management of Levator Ani Syndrome. International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders: Understanding Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia. Journal of Clinical Medicine (2026): The Role of Graduated Dilation in Chronic Anal Fissure Recovery.
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Searching for the Best Sex Position for a "Tight Vagina"? Here is the Truth.
If you’ve spent the last hour searching for the "perfect sex position" to stop the stinging, burning, or that feeling of hitting a "brick wall," I want to save you some time: The position isn't the problem. As a pelvic pain advocate and the inventor of VuVa™ Pelvic Trainers, I see this all the time. Couples try to "angle" their way around the pain. They try pillows, different heights, or specific rotations, hoping that this time will be different. But if your pelvic floor is in a state of chronic tension, no position in the world is going to feel like a "relief." If sex feels "too tight," your body isn't too small—your muscles are guarding. Here is what is actually going on under the hood and why you need to "prep the engine" before you try to change the position. Why "Tightness" Isn't About Your Anatomy When we talk about a "tight vagina," we are almost always talking about the pelvic floor muscles that surround the canal. These muscles are powerful, and they are highly sensitive to stress, hormones, and pain. If these muscles are stuck in a "clench," entry will be painful regardless of how you are lying or sitting. There are four main reasons this happens: 1. Vaginismus: The Automatic Shut-Down This is an involuntary muscle spasm. Your brain, usually trying to protect you from pain, sends a signal to your pelvic muscles to clamp shut. It feels like hitting a physical barrier. No "position" can force those muscles to relax; you have to retrain the brain-muscle connection first. 2. Hypertonic Pelvic Floor: Muscles That Can’t Let Go Imagine having a permanent knot in your shoulder that never goes away. Now imagine that knot is in your pelvic floor. A "hypertonic" floor is always "on," meaning the muscles are shortened and tight 24/7. This makes penetration feel like stretching a rubber band that is already at its limit. 3. Vulvodynia: The "Stinging" Nerves Sometimes the muscles are fine, but the nerves at the opening are hypersensitive. This causes a sharp, burning, or stinging sensation the moment anything touches the area. If the nerves are screaming "ouch," your body will reflexively tighten up to stop the contact. 4. Vaginal Atrophy: The Loss of "Snap" Common after menopause or during breastfeeding, a drop in estrogen makes the vaginal walls thin and less elastic. This isn't just a muscle issue—the tissue itself has lost its ability to stretch. See Product See Product See Product See Product The Secret to Success: "Pre-Sex" Training Trying to have sex when your muscles are guarding is like trying to do the splits without warming up—you’re going to get hurt. Instead of searching for a new position, the most effective way to "loosen" those muscles is through graduated dilation therapy. ### Why Dilators (Pelvic Trainers) Work: They Break the Fear-Pain Cycle: By using a trainer in a relaxed, private setting, you show your brain that penetration is safe. They Massage the Knots: Gently moving a trainer allows you to target those "trigger points" in the pelvic floor, manually encouraging them to release. They Restore Elasticity: For those dealing with atrophy, dilation increases blood flow to the tissue, helping it become plump and flexible again. Tara’s Advice: I always tell my customers to use their Pelvic Trainers for 15–20 minutes before they plan to be intimate. Think of it as a "pre-warmup." By the time you get to the bedroom, your muscles are already desensitized, relaxed, and ready to expand. 3 Things to Do Instead of Changing Positions Start a Dilation Routine: Don't wait for "the mood" to strike. Use your trainers 3–4 times a week to keep the muscles flexible. Consult a Pelvic Floor PT: A specialist can help you identify exactly which muscles are causing the "tight" feeling. Try Magnetic Therapy: Patented Neodymium magnets are specifically designed to calm overactive nerves and increase circulation, which is a game-changer for Vulvodynia and chronic guarding. FAQs: Tightness and Sex Can a certain position "stretch me out"? No. Sex positions are about the angle of entry, but they don't provide the graduated, therapeutic stretch that a Pelvic Trainer does. What if it still hurts even when I'm relaxed? If you feel relaxed but still feel pain, you may be dealing with Vulvodynia (nerve pain) or Atrophy (tissue thinning). These require specific tools like Magnetic dilators or estrogen therapy. Is it okay to use dilators right before sex? Yes! Many women find that "pre-dilating" for 10 minutes makes the transition to their partner much smoother and pain-free. A Final Thought from Tara Stop looking for a "magic position" and start listening to your pelvic floor. If it’s tight, it’s telling you it needs help, not a different angle. When you take the time to train those muscles to relax, every position becomes the "best" position. About the Author: Tara Langdale-Schmidt Tara Langdale-Schmidt is a renowned pelvic pain advocate and the inventor of the patented VuVa™ Magnetic Pelvic Floor Trainers. After overcoming her own struggle with Vaginismus and pelvic guarding, she has dedicated her career to helping over 250,000 women worldwide reclaim their physical comfort and confidence. References & Clinical Citations Mayo Clinic: Understanding Vaginismus and Pelvic Floor Muscle Spasms. Cleveland Clinic: Management of Dyspareunia and Vaginal Atrophy. Journal of Sexual Medicine (2026): The Role of Dilators in Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation. See Product See Product See Product See Product
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5 Treatment Options for Anal Stenosis
Anal stenosis is the name for the uncomfortable but relatively uncommon condition in which the anal canal tightens and narrows, leading to difficulty in passing stools. It is also referred to as rectal stenosis or anal stricture. The anal muscles do not expand and contract normally during defecation, which (aside from incomplete passing of stools) can cause constipation, straining, bleeding and pain. See Product See Product See Product See Product Wash your anal dilator before use with warm water and a mild hypoallergenic soap Get into the most comfortable position you can (many prefer laying on the left side) Use a water-based lubricant to cover the tip of the dilator and the entrance to the anus, so as to avoid any tearing or discomfort (petroleum-based lubricants increase infection risk as they don’t wash off well) Gently position the tip of the dilator at a right angle to anal entrance Breathe deeply and ease the dilator into the anal passage When only the flat end of the anal dilator is in contact with the skin, it is fully inserted. Do not insert any further in case retrieval is difficult Leave the dilator in for the period of time your practitioner has recommended in accordance with the severity of your anal stenosis Wash and dry your dilator thoroughly with hypoallergenic soap and water after use Please note that hygiene is of the utmost importance, since this area is home to many different types of bacteria. Always make sure it is fully cleaned after each use. If you find that you are becoming uncomfortable or experiencing excessive tension, stop the anal dilator therapy until a time when you feel more relaxed. It will get easier with practice, but it is best not to rush. It takes time and patience to recover from anal stenosis. Shop for Rectal Dilators here Resources Pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17610693/ If not treated early enough, serious long-term complications can result. This article focuses on treating anal stenosis. We recently wrote an article explaining anal stenosis causes, symptoms and diagnosis in detail, so this will recap on basic questions and outline the possible treatment options for anal stenosis. What are anal stenosis causes and symptoms? Stricture usually affects the internal sphincter, which is the involuntary sphincter located inside the external sphincter. The external sphincter is under your control, so that you can decide when it is convenient to pass stools. In most instances, the cause of anal stenosis is the scar tissue formation resulting from a surgery in the anal area, such as hemorrhoid or skin tag removal. Anal stenosis is always caused by scar tissue, but this scar tissue can have various causes. Other reasons for the formation of scar tissue in and around the anus include: Congenital malformation Sexually transmitted disease Rectal infection Anal stenosis symptoms may include: Constipation Straining (leading to anal fissures and tears, which in turn can cause spasms) Painful bowel movements Small or thin stools that may come out in pellets Fresh blood (which is bright red in color) Symptoms of rectal stenosis may initially be tolerable, but can get worse over time if they are not treated. It is crucial to get treatment for anal stenosis as early as possible so as to avoid more serious problems later. Do I have anal stenosis? It is important not to mistake anal fissures (small, painful tears in the rectal lining) for anal stenosis. Constipation is not necessarily an indicator of stenosis either, although it too is a symptom. If you consistently experience both, however, anal stricture may be the cause. Bleeding from the anus may also have various causes, but should always be a reason to seek medical examination. It is relatively simple to diagnose anal stenosis. A qualified medical practitioner will do a physical examination and assess your symptoms and medical history to come to a conclusion. If necessary, at this point you will be able to get treatment for anal stenosis. You can also do anal stenosis treatments at home if you prefer. See Product See Product See Product See Product How do you treat anal stenosis? There are both surgical anal stenosis treatments and non-surgical anal stenosis treatments. Studies show that anal stenosis treatments are usually effective, but what you need will depend on the severity of your condition. Below are the most common anal stenosis treatment methods: Dietary Adjustments If you have mild rectal stenosis, you will need to consider including more fiber in your diet. This makes stools larger but softer, so it will be easier to pass them. Very bulky or large stools can cause pain when attempting to pass them, so it is important to soften them enough that they can pass easily. Stool softeners and emollient laxatives If stricture is assessed as mild or moderate, you may be able to use stool softeners or laxatives that soften your stools. However, since these can dehydrate the bowel, they are not recommended for long-term use and may be best used when symptoms are particularly challenging. Steroid or Botox injections Your healthcare practitioner may recommend steroid injections into the scar tissue, which is known to lessen the recurrence of stricture. Alternatively they may wish to use Botox injections to reduce the occurrence of spasms, which worsen stricture. Surgery Surgery for anal stenosis consists of the following options: Sphincterotomy/lateral internal sphincterotomy: cutting the internal sphincter muscle to release tension, or repair anal fissures and prevent spasms Anoplasty: surgical reconstruction of the anus in order to replace defective tissue with a flap of healthy tissue, after scar tissue removal (usually for severe stenosis) Under local anesthetic, your Doctor may incise the ring of scar tissue through the anal skin to allow normal expansion of the anal canal. After this point, anal dilators are usually recommended to assist in continued stretching during the healing process. Anal dilation Anal dilating is a simple and effective way to gently stretch the anal canal. It can be done with a finger, or fingers, but this can be somewhat awkward. It is also less hygienic than using an anal dilator, which is recommended by professionals in the treatment of anal stenosis. Dilating the anal canal twice a day over the course of two months can help to restore normal anal capacity, but the necessary frequency will need to be confirmed by your healthcare provider. Magnetic rectal dilators are particularly helpful for releasing tight anal muscles and gently expanding the rectum. They are the best rectal dilator after anal surgery and can help to relax and soothe painful rectal muscles. The rectum should be dilated in order to prevent the scarring and narrowing associated with anal stenosis. Neodymium magnets increase blood flow to the anus, quickening healing and soothing nerves. Neodymium magnetic therapy is a great benefit to health because magnetic fields have the ability to stimulate healing as they pass through cells and tissues. Neodymium magnets in particular are the strongest neomagnets, meaning that they can penetrate deeper than other magnets. How to use rectal dilators
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Is it Normal to Bleed when the Hymen is Stretched?
There are quite a few misconceptions about hymens and losing your virginity, so it’s little wonder that women don’t know quite what to expect if they haven’t yet had sex. The presence of a hymen tends to be associated with virginity, but that’s often not the case at all. However, because first-time sex sometimes leads to a little bit of bleeding, it’s easy to assume that you might bleed when the hymen is stretched (or torn). The hymen is a stretchy, fleshy membrane found around 1-2 centimetres inside the vaginal opening. Contrary to popular belief, this membrane doesn’t completely cover the vaginal opening; it is likely to have one or more openings in it so that menstrual blood and other fluids can flow through. There are many things that can stretch your hymen. It doesn’t have to be sex – in fact, your hymen is likely to have stretched long before you first have sex… and the concept of ‘breaking the hymen’ is actually a myth! See Product See Product See Product See Product Should you bleed when your hymen is stretched? In truth, it’s unlikely that you’ll bleed if the hymen is stretched. That’s because (as we mentioned above) it probably already has at least one hole in it. Some girls are born with very little hymen tissue, and some have none at all. The majority of females do have a hymen, but they stretch it over time because of various activities, such as: Inserting tampons Masturbation Pap smear tests (cervical cancer screening) Horse riding Bike riding Gymnastics Using vaginal dilators or sex toys A hymen can either be stretched or torn, and this even happens because of gentle pressure – that alone is enough to fully open the hymen. Since it doesn't have a big blood supply, even if you stretch or tear it you probably won’t bleed much… if at all! Having said that, if you happen to tear your hymen through more vigorous sex or sporting activity, you might experience a small amount of bleeding – but it’s nothing to worry about. What happens when the hymen is stretched? Again, all hymens are different! The small opening (or openings) within your hymen is often crescent shaped, although shapes and sizes vary quite a lot. Hymen openings can be small or large, but no matter the size, they exist to make it easy for the hymen to stretch naturally. Once you have torn or stretched your hymen it shrinks to the sides of the vaginal opening, becoming an irregular ring of tissue. The more pressure you put on your hymen through sex or other activities, the sooner this will happen. Dilators made in the USA are available at www.vuvatech.com So the bottom line is that stretching your hymen happens easily and naturally, often before you even have sex, and it generally doesn’t hurt. You probably won’t bleed if you stretch your hymen, but if you tear it the first time you have penetrative sex, a few drops of blood is normal. Excessive vaginal bleeding after penetration of any kind is not normal, so if this is happening to you, you should consult your Doctor. 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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Why Was My Pap Smear Test Painful?
Was is supposed to be like this? Pap smear tests are not something we women look forward to. However, if we are to keep on top of the kind of cellular changes that can lead to cervical cancer, we may view them as a necessary part of female life. Fortunately we don’t need to have them very often – once every three to five years suffices, provided we haven’t got a history of abnormal cells. Although it can be an uncomfortable experience, should a Pap smear test be painful? Let’s get straight to the point: under normal circumstances, the answer is no. However, we all have differences in our physiology and some of us have conditions that can make these things more difficult - or even painful. This article will address some of the possible reasons your Pap smear test hurt more than it should. Why was your Pap smear test painful? There are a few reasons you might have had a painful smear test. Below are the most likely causes: Cervical ectropion/cervical erosion Cervical ectropion (otherwise known as cervical erosion) is the name for when glandular cells (soft cells) have grown on the outside of your cervix. These cells normally grow inside the cervix, but in this instance they start to proliferate on the outside of it. The external glandular cells are more fragile and sensitive than those located inside your cervix, hence the pain during a cervical screening. If you’ve got cervical erosion, your Pap smear could make you bleed more than normal. Cervical ectropion happens because of fluctuating estrogen levels, being pregnant, or on hormonal medication such as the contraceptive pill. It usually goes away on its own, and you may not even know you’ve got this until you get a cervical cancer screening. However there might be signs such as unexpected spotting or discharge. See Product See Product See Product See Product A tilted uterus You won’t have any symptoms of a tilted uterus (also known as a retroverted uterus). The first you might find out about it is when you have a painful Pap smear test. A tilted uterus means that your cervix is tilted slightly in the direction of your back. In other words, it is positioned more upwards than normal. This isn’t a problem, but it can make smear tests more challenging to conduct… so you might experience pain. Due to the position of the cervix, your Doctor or nurse might find it tricky to access. Obviously this can get quite uncomfortable as they try different angles and move the speculum around. They might have to ask you to move into different positions, like sitting on your hands so that they can more easily locate the cervix. Vaginismus or Vulvodynia If you have either condition, you might find Pap smear tests painful. With vaginismus, you fear penetration and any attempt at it causes you severe anxiety. As a result your vaginal muscles can clamp shut involuntarily, making penetration difficult or painful. As smear tests can be a cause of anxiety, it’s highly likely that women with vaginismus will find them impossible or very painful. It is important to be honest with your Doctor or nurse so that they don’t inadvertently hurt you during the smear test. If you have vulvodynia, even the slightest touch or pressure can cause you pain in the vulvar region. This is not normal and should be diagnosed by a specialist. Women with vulvodynia will undoubtedly experience painful Pap smear tests, so it is important to inform your practitioner of this condition so that they can help you through it. Aside from the above, you should not experience painful smear tests. A certain degree of discomfort is normal, but anything more than that indicates that there is some kind of problem. That’s why it’s important to highlight any pain you feel during your smear test, and to consult your healthcare provider to explore further diagnoses if necessary. See Product See Product See Product See Product 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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Why Do You Have a Fear of Sex? Here are 4 Possible Reasons…
There is a name for when you’re afraid of sexual intercourse, or sexual intimacy: genophobia, or erotophobia. Note that there is a difference between disliking or being averse to sex and actually having a fear of sex. If you have feelings of panic or dread at the prospect of sex, you probably fall into this category. Perhaps you experience fear or anxiety about getting close emotionally with another person. If so, it is quite common for fear of sex to develop too. Sometimes the fear of sex has been present for so long that it feels like ‘just a part of life’. It is even common for women to be unsure of what set this fear off in the first place. Why do you have a fear of sex? If you’re not quite sure of the answer, perhaps our article can shed some light. See Product See Product See Product See Product Common reasons for fear of sex (genophobia) Your fear of sexual intimacy may stem from physical or emotional issues, including: Vaginismus or vulvodynia Vaginismus is a recognized genito–pelvic pain and penetration disorder. If you feel anxiety about having sex and find that as a result your vagina clamps shut, you may want to see your Doctor for a vaginismus diagnosis. Women with vaginismus have little control over the contractions in their vaginal muscles, which can make sex difficult, impossible, or very painful. Vulvodynia is chronic pain condition in which you might feel discomfort or severe pain in or around the opening of your vagina, or deep within the vagina – especially during sex. Although there is no definitive cause, it is associated with the brain misinterpreting even light pressure to the nerve endings in the vagina. Even the lightest touch can lead to pain, burning or irritation and the condition can last for months or even years. If you feel pain when you are touched down there, you may well develop a fear of sex. A history of sexual abuse Women who have suffered sexual abuse as a child or even later in life are much more likely to become afraid of sex. Sexual traumas such as rape can even cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can leave you with flashbacks and negative associations with sexual intimacy. Quite often PTSD takes counseling or sex therapy to overcome these deep-rooted psychological issues and resume a normal sex life. Performance anxiety Feelings of inadequacy in the bedroom are all too common. There could be any number of reasons why you worry that you’re not good at sex, from unsuccessful sexual encounters to general feelings of insecurity. Sometimes even holding a sexual partner in such high regard that you worry about disappointing them can lead to performance anxiety. If you are primarily concerned with how your sexual partner is going to perceive you, this could be the reason for your genophobia. If so, it is important to find a way to overcome this, because it can become a vicious cycle and self-fulfilling prophecy in that if you can’t relax into the moment you won’t enjoy yourself and your partner may well sense this. Body dysmorphia Body dysmorphia is the name for when you have a negative perception of your physical body. It is usually accompanied by feelings of shame and the certainty that you are physically or sexually unattractive. Such heightened feelings of self-consciousness often stem from emotional issues and ingrained feelings of inadequacy. You may well be convinced that everyone sees your body this way, but it is rarely true – you are likely to find that you are your own biggest critic, but it’s another matter entirely to accept this. Unfortunately it is a damaging form of self-loathing that almost inevitably leads to fear of sex, as you won’t want to expose yourself to somebody you find attractive for fear of rejection. Whatever the reason for your fear of sex, it is important to find a way to overcome it. It is human nature to want to connect with others sexually, and to procreate, so fear of sex and abstinence from intercourse can lead to further emotional and psychological issues if left unresolved. It can also get in the way of healthy relationships. Although it may seem insurmountable, overcoming fear of sexual intercourse may not be as difficult as it seems. Check our blog for more advice on this topic! 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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Coconut Oil for Lichen Sclerosus?
What is the Best Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus? Lichen sclerosus is an autoimmune condition that can cause problems all over the body, but often affects the vulva. It causes discoloration of the skin, turning it white in color and patchy. It can be very itchy and inflamed, and if left untreated can thin the skin, or lead to scarring, thickening and fusion of the skin over time. It may also lead to other infections, and although it’s possible for it to go away on its own, it often requires some treatment. If you are having trouble overcoming it, you may be wondering what is the best treatment for lichen sclerosus. It is worth noting that lichen sclerosus (LS) is considered to be an autoimmune condition. This means that even though it can suddenly disappear, it can also come back at any point. It might come due to stress, low immune system function or fluctuation in hormones, and for some women it requires lifelong treatment or at the very least, vigilant precautionary measures. The best treatments for lichen sclerosus Medical treatment: steroid creams Doctors believe that the best treatment for lichen sclerosus is topical corticosteroid ointments and creams. These contain cortisone, and are the most commonly prescribed lichen sclerosus treatments. In the case that these are not working, your Doctor might prescribe tacrolimus (Protopic) ointment or Dermovate, another strong steroid cream. Some women have difficulties with medical lichen sclerosis treatments because unfortunately with prolonged use they can lead to thinning of the vulvar skin. See Product See Product See Product See Product Natural treatments Herbs Some herbs are very good for treating lichen sclerosus, boosting healing or preventing scarring, itching and inflammation. If herbs are applied in a cream or oil they can bring great results - fast. Comfrey is great at repairing damaged cells by ‘knitting’ them back together, thus speeding up the healing process. Calendula is another herb that works well on skin conditions. It is antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal, and antiseptic, making it a top choice for clearing up infections. Then there is red clover, which is very anti-inflammatory. Since it also contains phytoestrogen, it has been helpful menopausal women with LS. Plantain is another herb that helps by stopping your skin from itching. Oils Oils are some of the best natural treatments for lichen sclerosus, as they can moisturize and treat inflammation at the same time. Coconut oil has a lot of benefits for the skin; not only is it moisturizing, but it has some antibacterial properties too. For lichen sclerosus sufferers it is very soothing and can bring relief from itching and burning. Lots of women get plenty of relief from lichen sclerosus symptoms with olive oil. They report healing of ulcers, relief from burning and itching and a softening of rough or tight skin. Whichever oil you try, it’s a good idea to use it every time you’ve used the bathroom, making sure you clean the area properly before applying it. In just a few days you may start to see improvement in your LS. Vaginal dilators Vaginal dilators can keep the vagina open. Since lichen sclerosus sufferers can develop thickened skin (or fusion of it), the vaginal opening may shrink and recede. If this is a problem and you wish to have regular sexual intercourse, you may find vaginal dilators useful. It may be a good idea to try several lichen sclerosus treatments to find the ones that work best for you and keep the symptoms at bay over the long term. It is certainly possible to treat the condition naturally without having to worry about the negative side effects of prescribed ointments and creams. We wish you all the best in overcoming your condition! 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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How Long Does it Take to Loosen Tight Pelvic Floor Muscles?
Anyone who has suffered with the symptoms of a tight pelvic floor (hypertonic pelvic floor) will tell you that this excess tension is troublesome. It leads to restricted motion and often some form of pain. The pain usually manifests in the hips, lower back, tailbone, vagina or perineum area, but it can also extend to the buttocks, thighs and abdomen. Awareness about pelvic floor muscle stretches seems to be spreading, which is great; but one question that rarely gets answered is, how long does it take to loosen tight pelvic floor muscles? We have written quite a lot on various aspects of this problem, from the benefits of pelvic floor stretches to spotting the symptoms of a tight pelvic floor. This information will surely be useful but it helps to remember that with any form of healing, it can take time and perseverance. This article will outline how to loosen tight pelvic floor muscles, how long it may take to do so, and helpful tips for maintenance. How to loosen tight pelvic floor muscles Since your pelvic floor is not manually accessible, you may only have a vague idea of where your pain and tension is originating. It’s not entirely obvious to people how they should start to tackle the problem, so specific instructions on how to relax the pelvic floor muscles are often required. The good news is that once you know what you are doing it’s pretty easy, and there are lots of ways to go about it. If you have a hypertonic pelvic floor, you are likely to have been inadvertently holding your pelvic floor muscles tight for so long that your brain has become accustomed to it and no longer recognizes a problem. So by consciously performing pelvic floor stretches and breathing exercises, you are retraining your brain to perceive the newly relaxed state as normal. Thus you’re much more likely to notice any future tension arising and stop it in its tracks. See Product See Product See Product See Product How long will it take to loosen your pelvic floor? Truthfully, your pelvic floor muscles aren’t likely to release all of the accumulated tension overnight. To loosen tight pelvic floor muscles you will need to be patient and persistent. You should also note that different exercises work for different people, so you’ll need to listen to your body in order to pinpoint the techniques that work for you personally. The best way to do this is try out all of the exercises and breathing techniques to find the ones that make you feel the most relaxed. Even if you don’t feel relief from pelvic floor tension or pain immediately, keep at it. At the very minimum you should be doing your stretches and breathing for at least 20 to 30 minutes, twice a day, until you start to notice a difference. Practice certainly makes perfect and the more effort you put in, the more quickly you should see results. Over time, you will start to relax the pelvic floor muscles quickly and easily. You can start out with a ‘little and often’ approach if you find this easier; for example, instead of twice a day for 30 minutes, do 4 times per day for 10 minutes. Build up your practice gradually over weeks (or months if necessary) and within three to five months you should return to normal. This a realistic ballpark figure but it does depend on how severe your issues are. You can also use vaginal dilators to help relax a tense pelvic floor. Vuva dilators are used to regenerate vaginal capacity, expand the vaginal walls, add elasticity to the tissues, and to allow for comfortable sexual intercourse. VuVa Magnetic Dilators are smooth lightweight plastic, that come in a variety of graduated sizes. In a clinical trial conducted by Chief Investigator and Pelvic Pain Specialist Dr. Michael Swor in Sarasota, FL, it was shown that VuVa Neodymium Magnetic Dilators reduced pain in 80% of study subjects with no side effects reported. Neodymium Magnets are within each dilator that increase blood flow and relieve sexual discomfort while soft tissue lengthens, relaxing muscles and ligaments. As the tissue relaxes, the Neodymium magnets increase blood flow to the painful area calming nerves. VuVa™ Dilators are the only patented dilators available with Neodymium magnets. If after this amount of time you don’t feel any real improvement has happened, it may be necessary to consult a pelvic floor physical therapist who can help take your healing to the next level. It is also important to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be affecting your pelvic floor muscles, so checking in with a healthcare specialist is also a good idea. Finally, if you aim to loosen tight pelvic floor muscles for good, be sure not to stop your practice once you’ve got rid of the obvious tension. It is wise to keep practicing once a day for maintenance as part of your routine, because as they say, prevention is better than cure. 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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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.
