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Scared to Have Sex Because it Hurts? These May be Some Reasons Why
Sometimes the very thought of sex can strike fear into the hearts of women who genuinely want to have a good time and feel connected to their partners. Women of various cultures and ages suffer from dyspareunia (painful sex). When a woman is scared to have sex because it hurts, she may feel a lot of pressure to just deal with the problem in her own. This may not be a viable option though; it really depends on the underlying reason why sex hurts. Unfortunately there are still plenty of stigmas around sexual conditions of all kinds, and people often don’t want to speak up about any degree of sexual dysfunction. They may feel embarrassed, or wish to avoid disappointing or worrying their partners. When women are scared to have sex there is usually a very good reason why. However, that reason may not always be totally clear to them. Perhaps all they know is that sex hurts every time, which is enough to put anyone off the idea! We have put together a summary of possible reasons sex hurts so that you can get to the bottom of your problem and set off on the path to healing. Possible reasons you’re scared to have sex Nobody could blame you for trying to avoid pain… but painful sex is another story entirely, since it can also create emotional and confidence issues over time. If you are scared to have sex, it is no doubt diminishing the quality of your relationship, or life in general. Here are some of the main reasons sex hurts: See Product See Product See Product See Product Physical reasons sex hurts You have inflammation around your vaginal opening You have an infection of some kind (dermatological or yeast infection, or STD) You have vulvodynia (soreness from over-responsive nerves in the vaginal area) You have vaginismus (involuntary spasms and tightening of the vaginal muscles) You have pudendal neuralgia (nerve damage to the pelvic area) You have had surgery in the pelvic area You’re going through or have reached the menopause (resulting in vaginal atrophy) You are not producing enough lubrication (perhaps through hormone decline) If any of these issues seem likely to you, it is worth checking in with your health practitioner for an assessment. Some problems are easier to treat than others, but it is unlikely that any of the above will resolve without intervention of some kind. In the case of lack of lubrication, you may wish to try a water-based personal lubricant. See Product See Product See Product See Product Psychological dyspareunia causes When you’re scared to have sex because it hurts, you might be surprised to find that the cause is psychological. If there are no obvious physical signs of discomfort except when you have sex, and you think you can rule out vaginismus, it is worth thinking about whether the cause of your dyspareunia is psychological. Most psychological causes can result in either dryness through lack of natural lubrication, or muscle tension from anxiety. The latter could appear to be vaginismus, and although vaginismus can have psychological causes, a professional would need to confirm this condition. You’ve lost your sex drive (libido) You have unresolved psychological traumas around sex You have performance anxiety, making you anxious or prone to muscle tension Your hormones are out of balance, leading to mood disorders or emotional problems (as can happen in the perimenopause) You’re having problems in your relationship (so have gone off sex) You’re stressed out in general and this is spilling over into the bedroom It is worth thinking about whether you have any deep-rooted emotional responses that are making you scared to have sex. If you think this could be the problem, sometimes a sexual therapist or counselor is the best port of call. The bottom line is that if you are regularly scared to have sex because it hurts, before this becomes a vicious circle it is wise to check in with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying causes. It isn’t a problem to ignore or take lightly, and once you know what the cause is, you may be surprised at how easy it is to find the right treatment for your issue. 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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Vaginal Stretching & Keeping in Shape with Dilators
Staying fit Vaginal dilators or vaginal trainers are smooth, tube-shaped devices that help with vaginal stretching. While they may resemble a sex toy, vaginal dilators are medical devices that have helped thousands of women improve vaginal health and lead healthy sex lives. When you're living with vaginal tightness, the pain makes it challenging to engage in sexual intercourse, use tampons, and even undergo a gynecological exam. Painful vaginal tissue also makes women feel ashamed and fearful. In this article, we'll help women with tight vaginal tissue keep in shape with dilators. Vaginal Dilator Therapy Vaginal dilator therapy is a conventional physiotherapy treatment to stretch out the vagina. According to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, vaginal dilator therapy is a safe and effective way to keep the vagina from becoming too narrow and improve vaginal elasticity. (1) As with any other muscle in a woman's body, pelvic floor muscles can become tight and constricted. The tightness can lead to pain and spasms in the vagina and vulva. Some women describe the pain as searing and constant, while others experience sharp pain when triggered (can you use CBD? Check this out). Common triggers can be as little as pressure from a finger, sitting for long periods, wearing tight clothes, or during intercourse. Vaginal dilator therapy applies pressure to the inflamed vaginal wall to help them relax to decrease tightness and spasms. (2) Choosing the Right Vaginal Dilator Vaginal dilators come in many shapes and sizes. Selecting the right vaginal dilator to help strengthen your pelvic floor and ease sexual pain is essential. Since vaginal dilator therapy is the most commonly prescribed treatment for safe vaginal stretching, you have a few different choices. Magnetic Vaginal Dilators Vuva medical grade magnetic vaginal dilators are made from medical grade polycarbonate plastic and come in graduated sizes. Each dilator comes with over 60 Neodymium magnets to help stretch the vagina. While non-magnet vaginal dilators can be useful, ones with magnets may work better for some women. The reason is that the magnets help pull fresh, oxygenated blood into the vaginal walls while removing any acidity causing illness. New blood pumped through the vaginal muscle is healing and rejuvenating. Non-Magnetic Vaginal Dilators VuVa Smooth Vaginal Dilators have helped thousands of women around the world stretch the vagina with vaginal dilators. The non-magnetic dilators are made with polycarbonate plastic too, but without the magnets and designed by a pelvic pain patient who suffered from painful intercourse. You can purchase non-magnetic vaginal dilators in sets of five or individually. The benefit of investing in a dilator set is that you can start with the smallest one, and as your pain threshold grows, you can move up to the next size. Silicone Dilators For the softest vaginal dilators you can find, try silicone dilators. Silicon is soft and malleable, making the fit easier on the pelvic floor. The Grade 6 medical silicone comes in FDA-approved ingredients and fun colors. The VuVatech silicone dilators warm to the body's temperature and have a silky, yet firm texture that makes stretching your vagina more comfortable. While the fit is less painful initially, medical-grade plastic dilators with magnets break up the scar tissue faster. See Product See Product See Product See Product How to use vaginal dilators Once you've chosen the right vaginal dilator, you're ready to begin pelvic floor therapy. VuVatech dilators usually come with lubricant. You'll want to use a water-based lubricant during treatment. Your natural lubrication may not be enough for the procedure to be effective. Find a nice, quiet place you can be alone without interruption. Vaginal dilator therapy can be emotional, and you'll want somewhere you feel safe. In a comfortable prone position with your legs bent, gently insert the dilator. You must start with the smallest size for a vaginal stretch without too much pain. Dilator therapy is best when done 1-2 times per day for 20-30 minutes. As your vagina stretches, you'll be able to withstand more extended amounts of time. When is Dilator Therapy Used 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 The reasons for keeping in shape with dilators vary from woman to woman. Below are some common conditions that dilator therapy can help ease. Dyspareunia Dyspareunia is vulva pain before, during, or after sexual intercourse. Women of all ages can experience pain during intimacy, and the reasons vary from vaginal structural problems to psychological problems. Vaginal Changes Having a child is one of the most life-changing moments in a woman's life. Yet, vaginal birth can cause vagina changes. If you have perineal trauma during the delivery, it may cause scar tissue. The perineal is the space that connects the vaginal opening with the anus. As the baby's head moves through the birth canal, the opening of the vagina widens. But if the labor is quick or perineal stretching is too rough, it can tear, requiring stitches. It then can then cause perineal scarring. Vaginal dilators can help perform perineal massage after birth (after stitches removal and healing) or during the birth preparation process to improve elasticity. Perineal massaging helps reduce the risk of permanent scarring. (3) Vaginismus Vaginismus is painful, uncontrollable spasms in the vagina. The triggers for the pain could be simply inserting a tampon, undergoing a pelvic exam, or during sexual penetration. Vaginismus may be primary or secondary. Primary is when you've never been able to have penetrative sex and secondary when you could have sexual penetration in the past but can no longer. Pelvic radiation therapy If you’ve had pelvic radiation therapy as a cancer treatment, your vagina may have narrowed and have reduced elasticity. The vaginal walls may have become thin and dry, making sexual intercourse painful. Vaginal dilators can help stretch the vaginal walls and widen the vagina. (4) Menopause Menopause is a moment in a woman's life when she makes the transition from being fertile to infertile. The most common age is the late 40s and early 50s. As the change happens, hormones levels of estrogen and progesterone begin to fluctuate dramatically, causing painful symptoms. Two of these symptoms are vaginal atrophy (extreme dryness) and vaginal narrowing. Both conditions result in painful intercourse. (5) Vulvodynia Vulvodynia is pain and spasms in the vaginal opening or vulva that has no known cause. The National Vulvodynia Society says that women who suffer from this condition experience painful symptoms, including vaginal inflammation, stinging, tearing, and aching. Pain can be ongoing or triggered. (6) Vaginal dilators help stretch and keep your vagina in shape. While the process may seem unfamiliar at first, as you use dilators to ease vaginal pain, you’ll begin to experience the joy this brings in all areas of your life— From renewed intimacy to increased confidence. Begin your healing journey today! https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/how-use-vaginal-dilator https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1083318819301858 https://www.obgyn.net/pelvic-pain/painful-intercourse-after-delivery https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/radiation-therapy-pelvis https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-menopause https://www.nva.org/what-is-vulvodynia/ Other VuVa Helpful Links:
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Can Using Tampons Stretch Your Vagina?
It is quite normal to consider the effects of any kind of penetration on your vagina. There are a lot of myths out there as to what will affect its shape and size, etc. So if you’re wondering whether tampons can stretch your vagina or not, you are undoubtedly not the first! From our early teens (and sometimes before) until well into our forties or fifties, we are going to be dealing with periods. That means we’re going to go through a lot of tampons (or some other kind of sanitary products), so it’s probably a fair question to ask! Therefore, in this article we’ll address that burning question: Do tampons stretch your vagina? In a word: no. Tampons cannot stretch your vagina out no matter how many you use, or how many years you use them for. It may seem like they are, especially when they’re difficult to insert, or you’re using larger ones. Younger women may be particularly concerned with this prospect, especially if they haven’t yet had sexual intercourse. The truth is that tampons work just fine for women of all ages and sizes. A virgin may have more difficulty inserting a tampon, and a tampon might break a hymen – but it won’t stretch your vagina. The vagina is quite a phenomenon really, when you think about it! Since it is full of muscles, it can get very tight in certain circumstances (for instance, through fear and anxiety). On the other hand, it can stretch out to a mind-blowing extent – as is evidenced when women give birth. Even after childbirth, within six months the vagina will return to its usual shape and size, more or less, which can be helped along by kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor. So if a baby can’t stretch your vagina permanently, there’s no way that lots of sex can either… and it stands to reason that tampons have no chance of doing it! The only thing that is likely to make your vagina permanently looser is age. When our estrogen levels start dropping, we lose some elasticity in the vaginal muscles. That’s just nature, unfortunately. See Product See Product See Product See Product If you want to stretch your vagina Rather than being worried about it, you could be asking this question because you’re actually looking for a way to stretch your vagina, of course. If you feel that your vagina is too tight, it makes sense that you’ll want to create some space. Sex can be uncomfortable and tampons can be difficult to insert when you’re too tight down there… but as tampons can’t stretch your vagina, there’s no point in trying to use them for that purpose. What you can do about this depends on the reason for the vaginal tightness. A common reason is vaginismus; you’ll know if you have vaginismus because you’ll feel really anxious about any kind of penetration, and as a result you’ll tighten up. No matter how hard you try to stretch your vagina (through sex or otherwise), it seems to stay constricted. Some women want to stretch the vagina out because they have a condition like vaginal stenosis, or vaginal atrophy. In both instances the vagina could be partially closed or shrinking, and some intervention is necessary to stretch out the vaginal passage again. If any of the aforementioned possibilities resonate with you, read on for solutions. What can you do to stretch the vagina out? Our recommendation is to use vaginal dilators (also known as vaginal expanders), since these are designed for exactly that purpose. Vaginal dilators can stretch your vagina over time; you start out small and go up a size until you’ve reached the capacity you’re aiming for. We have plenty of information all over our site about vaginal dilators and what the different type of dilators can do for you. All of them will stretch your vagina, so it’s just a matter of finding the right dilators for you, whether they’re silicone, plastic, or they contain Neodymium magnets. So feel free to take a look around and let us know if you have any questions! Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators See Product See Product See Product Tara Langdale/ President of VuVa Dilator Company
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Vulvodynia Home Remedies - Vaginal Pain Treatment
Reasons for home treatment Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition in the vulvar that has no identifiable source. It's a vaginal pain condition that causes most women to suffer in silence for months to years on end. For some, it may seem hopeless without a cure. The weight of vulvodynia causes difficulties in a woman's life, in relationships and causes depression and anxiety. Speaking to a doctor is difficult, but when women do come forward, they describe the pain as stinging, burning, raw, and cutting. The pain of vulvodynia may occur by simply sitting for an extended period, during a pelvic exam, or even from an inserted tampon. Sexual intercourse is difficult and painful. In some cases, even tight clothing brings out the pain. While some health professionals may suggest medications or even surgery, there are home remedies to relieve vulvodynia. See Product See Product See Product See Product Choose loose clothing The National Vulvodynia Association recommends that women with vulvodynia avoid wearing tight clothing. It’s better to put on skirts or loose-fitting pants. Another recommendation is to abstain from wearing tights or pantyhose. When it comes to undergarments, all-white cotton panties may help with vulvar pain. Vulvodynia pain occurs in the vulvar (the area outside of your vagina). Gynecologists even recommend not wearing underwear while sleeping. Wash with irritant-free detergents One lifestyle and home remedy worth considering is using a dermatologically approved detergent when doing laundry. Recommended brands are Clear or Purex. You also want to avoid using fabric softeners or irritants such as dyes and perfumes. Using high-quality soap may help alleviate vulvar pain. After washing undergarments, rinse them further with cold water to remove any remaining residue. Take a lukewarm sitz bath Personal hygiene is an essential part of relieving vulvodynia. One natural home remedy is women should consider taking a cool or lukewarm sitz bath to reduce pain and inflammation. Sitz comes from the word sitzen in German, which means to sit. By sitting in freshwater, it helps circulate the blood flow in the vulva and perineum (space between the vagina and anus). While taking a bubble bath may help relieve stress, the chemicals in the soap may irritate the vulva. Also, try to circumvent washing the vulva with shampoo or soap. Once finished in the bath, slowly dry with a clean cloth. The American Colleges of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests applying a thin layer of water-based petroleum jelly to the vulva to relieve vulvodynia after a bath. Select cotton personal-products When it comes to personal products to ease vulvodynia pain, choose 100% cotton tampons and pads for menstruation. It's also preferable to select pads instead of tampons. Even toilet paper should be soft, white, and unscented. Use gel packs for pain relief Gel packs or cold compresses are a natural home vulvodynia treatment. Find a quiet place and lay them directly on your vulva and vestibule to alleviate pain, itching, and inflammation. The vestibule is the area surrounding the opening of the vagina. If you use cold compresses, make sure they are made with white and 100% cotton. You can apply gel packs after certain activities such as sexual intercourse, horseback riding, or even sitting for long periods. Make dietary changes According to MedicineNet, treatment options for pelvic pain are to choose foods that won't make your urine more stringent. Some foods to avoid are beans, berries, nuts, and chocolate. The Vulval Pain Society suggests a low-oxalate diet, but there’s not a lot of research to back up the recommendation. Oxalate is abundant in humans and plants. The molecule is not a necessary nutrient for men and women, and excess may result in kidney stones. Some research shows boosting your levels of calcium-rich foods decrease oxalate in the urine. You can also drink plenty of water each day and avoid overeating animal protein. Other foods to avoid are soy products and some grain products like quinoa, bran flakes, and wheat germ. Understanding the connection between pain and sex For many women suffering from vulvodynia pain during sex is a common occurrence. Vulvodynia causes abnormal vaginal itching, vaginal dryness, and even unbearable pain when sexually active. It's common for women with vulvodynia to avoid sex, resulting in hurt relationships and hidden shame. It’s important to remember you’re not alone. To help ease pain during sex, you can communicate with your partner about your symptoms. When you do have sexual intercourse, take it slow, and use water-soluble lubricants. You can also ask your medical professional to prescribe a topical anesthetic, such as Lidocaine, and apply before sexual intercourse. Spermicides and contraceptive creams may further irritate the vulva, so avoiding these is recommended. After any sexual activity, go to the bathroom to prevent infection and gently clean the vulva after sex with a cotton hand towel and lukewarm water. See Product See Product See Product See Product Try vaginal dilation to treat and relieve symptoms vulvodynia Vaginal dilation is a safe and effective home remedy to treat vaginal pain. It works by helping you to relax your pelvic muscles. Doctors recommend vaginal dilators because women with vulvodynia commonly have pelvic floor dysfunction. The Neodymium Magnetic Vaginal Dilators by VuVa™ are proven to safely stretch the pelvic floor muscles to treat and prevent vulvodynia. Research shows that vaginal dilators not only decreased pain levels by an average of 28% for all women in the clinical trial, but women experienced increased overall confidence about sexual health. Vaginal dilators relieve physical symptoms and improve mental health. Doctors recommend using them 1-2 per day for relieving symptoms of vulvodynia. In the beginning, any amount of time spent using the dilators is helpful, but try for 20-30 minutes per session. Women should start with the smallest dilator to determine their pain level threshold. As the treatment begins to work, increase the dilator size. If you’re experiencing symptoms of vulvodynia, speak to your doctor about home remedies that work to treat vaginal pain. You may have to try a combination of home remedies to find relief, but the most effective treatment is vaginal dilators. Improving your sexual health will put you on the path to healthy living. Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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Vaginal Tightness and Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy: Is It Safe to Use Dilators?
Pregnancy changes your pelvic floor in ways you might not expect. If you are feeling 'too tight' or experiencing pain, learn how to safely maintain elasticity and prepare your body for a smoother delivery.
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Why am I Tighter than Usual?
There are times when your vagina can feel tighter than usual, and it may seem like cause for alarm. There’s a possibility there’s nothing to be concerned about, since at certain times of the month or during your lifecycle, it’s normal to feel a little tighter. However, sometimes there are underlying dysfunctions that can cause this vaginal tightness, and these may mean you need some kind of assistance. Assistance may come in the form of professional services, or tools you can use at home (such as vaginal expanders). Whatever the cause of your vaginal tightness, there will be a solution! This article will take a look at the reasons you might feel tighter than usual, and what you can do about it. See Product See Product See Product See Product When it’s normal to feel tighter than usual When your vagina feels too tight, it can be due to the normal ageing process or natural fluctuations in your hormones. If you feel discomfort or pain as a result, you’re probably wondering if being tighter than usual is problem. Here are some of the possible causes of a tight vagina: Lack of arousal If you feel tightness and discomfort during penetration, it might be because you’re not fully aroused yet. When you’re not in a state of arousal, your birth canal is probably only around 3 or 4 inches long. On top of this, you won’t have produced enough lubrication for sex to be comfortable. If you attempt to have sex when you’re not properly aroused, your vagina won’t have had a chance to expand and it’s going to feel tighter than usual. Hormonal fluctuations and menopause During your menstrual cycle, hormones fluctuate and this results in perceptible physical effects. When you are actually menstruating, you might feel tighter than usual. What’s more, after ovulation, your progesterone and estrogen levels will drop, and that’s responsible for the decreased elasticity and lubrication. If your vagina is feeling less flexible or drier than normal, it will probably also feel tighter. During the menopause, your estrogen levels are likely to drop even more, so your vaginal tissues will also get thinner than before. As you can imagine, all of these changes can lead to a feeling of vaginal tightness. Stress Whenever we get stressed out, the muscles in the body respond by tensing up. Different people feel muscular tension in different places; however, many women experience stress-related muscle tension in the pelvic floor. In fact, it’s one of the most susceptible areas to our stress. A tight pelvic floor could be the reason your vagina feels tighter than usual, so it may help to try to relax your pelvic floor muscles. When feeling tighter than usual is a problem Some women are tighter than usual because they have another condition that affects the muscles of the vagina. Here are some examples: Vaginismus Vaginismus is when the vagina constricts involuntarily, often due to fear of penetration. It can cause the vaginal muscles to get so tight than penetration of any kind is impossible, and even painful. If you find that your vagina tightens whenever penetration is about to happen, you may need to seek treatment for this. You may be able to deal with vaginismus psychologically, and you may also be able to ease your symptoms by using vaginal expanders (dilators) at home. However, quite often, professional assistance is also needed. Vaginal atrophy Vaginal atrophy occurs when hormone levels have declined to such an extent that the tissues are no longer receiving sufficient estrogen for the vagina to function normally. Also called atrophic vaginitis, it is characterized mainly by vaginal tightness (or closing), and thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls. Vaginal atrophy usual happens to post-menopausal women, but it can also happen after invasive treatments or operations. Again, professional help may be necessary, but lots of women have success with vaginal expanders. Vaginal stenosis Vaginal stenosis is a condition in which the birth canal narrows and/or shortens to an abnormal degree, so women who have this will almost certainly feel tighter than usual. It can also mean there’s a loss of flexibility and elasticity in the vagina. Vaginal stenosis most often occurs after chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or similar cancer treatments. If you think this could be the reason your vagina is too tight, be sure to consult your healthcare professional. Vaginal dilators will help, but you will still need a proper health check too. We hope this article has given you some insight into why you’re feeling tighter than usual, and if you need any product advice, you know where to find us! Don’t forget to check out our blog for many more useful tips and insights. We’re always adding more information to help women maintain their sexual health, and feedback is always welcome! See Product See Product See Product See Product 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
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What Causes Pain When Inserting a Tampon?
This is pretty frustrating! If you’re feeling pain when inserting a tampon, you’re probably feeling anxious about this. It’s a good thing to be concerned, because the truth is that inserting a tampon should not be painful; if it is, you will need to try and figure out the cause and find a solution. It is advisable not to panic – there will be a solution. Best-case scenario, it may just be a case of changing your method of insertion or practicing some easy protocols at home. Worst-case scenario, you may need to seek medical assistance or see a specialist practitioner to treat an underlying problem. Rest assured that VuvaTech are here to help you get to the bottom of why you’re feeling pain when inserting tampons. We also have a few ideas about how you can overcome any underlying causes, so read on for some helpful tips and insights. There are other potential causes of pain when inserting a tampon, such as allergic reaction. Since rayon tampons are treated with chemicals, this could be causing irritation or an allergic reaction, which is likely to result in pain and inflammation. If you have sensitive skin, it is worth checking that your tampons haven’t been bleached or chemically treated. In some instances, a uterine prolapse could cause difficulty or pain when inserting tampons. This is more common than it may seem, since it results in a weakness of the pelvic floor. It may seem like there’s no longer enough space for your tampons, and there may be some degree of pain. A mild uterine prolapse may feel like a lump in the birth canal (other than the cervix!), but if it’s a severe one, you’ll already know there’s a problem. Always seek medical treatment for any unusual lumps and bumps, but in the case of mild uterine prolapse, pelvic floor exercises may help. The bottom line is that you should not be experiencing pain when inserting a tampon, but if you are and it’s a problem you can’t solve easily alone, don’t be afraid to call your Doctor. We hope you found this article helpful! Drop us a line if you have any questions and we’ll always do our best to point you in the right direction. Email us at info@vuvatech.com See Product See Product See Product See Product Causes of pain when inserting a tampon Inserting tampons at the wrong angle We’ll start by saying that if pain when inserting a tampon was never a problem before, this is unlikely to be the cause. However it may help to consider that as the birth canal is curved, trying to insert a tampon by pushing it directly upwards is going to make it feel like the tampon is hitting a wall. Technically it is – it’s hitting the vaginal wall, and obviously this can hurt! If you’re not used to inserting tampons, you should start by trying to guide your tampon gently into the birth canal. Do so by holding it at an angle, as if pushing it in the direction of the base of your spine. You could try using tampons with an applicator to help you angle correctly. If you are doing these things but continue to feel pain, there is probably another reason for the pain. Vaginal dryness When the vagina is dry, it’s going to be more difficult to insert (or remove) a tampon. You may still be able to do it, but it could be painful. If your vagina is drier than usual, this could have various causes. Something as simple as insufficient menstrual flow is one possibility; as tampons are very dry, they can cause friction if the flow is minimal. If so, you may need to try smaller tampons or use a pad for lighter flow. Another reason for vaginal dryness may be hormonal changes that happen after childbirth and during breast-feeding. Similarly, during the perimenopause (the run up to the menopause), estrogen levels may drop, resulting in more vaginal dryness than usual. Although you may still be having periods, a drier vagina may result in pain when inserting a tampon. This is especially likely if dropping estrogen levels have resulted in any degree of atrophic vaginitis (vaginal atrophy), since this can also result in thinning skin in the area, burning sensations and inflammation. If you think dryness could be the problem, you could try using a personal lubricant to ease the process. Vaginismus If you have vaginismus, pain when inserting a tampon is probably inevitable. You’ll also feel pain during any kind of penetration attempt, since your vaginal muscles will tighten involuntarily. Women with vaginismus often feel severe anxiety at the thought of penetration, and tampons are no different. When vaginismus is the reason for difficulty in inserting tampons, you may need to seek vaginsimus treatment - the problem rarely goes away on its own, but it is curable. You may need the help of a pelvic floor physical therapist, or if your vaginismus is not severe, over time, practicing penetration at home using vaginal dilators may be enough. "Many customers call me and are having a hard time with tampons and cannot have intercourse. Vaginal Dilators along with pelvic floor physical therapy can be very beneficial. It is much better than taking pain medications that can alter how you feel and do not cure the problem at all." says Tara Langdale Schimidt, the Inventor of VuVa Dilators. Other possible reasons for pain when inserting a tampon
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How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex
How to relax? When your vaginal muscles become too tight, you may experience unexplained pain. For some, the reason is due to a lack of arousal or inadequate lubrication. For others, painful sexual intercourse has to do with a tightened vagina, commonly referred to as vaginismus. Vaginismus is the involuntary spasm of the vaginal muscles during penetration. It causes severe problems with sexual activities, female sexuality, relationships, and mental health. Women with vaginismus may live for years suffering in silence before seeking treatment. One of the best solutions for treating vaginismus is learning how to relax the vaginal muscles or pelvic floor muscles. See Product See Product See Product See Product What are vaginal muscles (pelvic floor muscles)? Your pelvic floor muscles are a band of muscles circling your pelvis, which is between the abdomen and thighs. The pelvic floor also supports the pelvic organs, such as the vagina, uterus, bladder, and bowel. Pelvic muscles help prevent accidental peeing or stopping urination in midstream. They also enable you to stop meant flatulence (passing of gas) or bowel movement (pooping). In addition to bodily function support, pelvic muscles tighten or contract when sexually aroused (orgasm). For a grown woman the vagina encompasses about 4-5 inches. It’s a tube-like, elastic organ that connects the external female genital organs to the uterus. As the main area for sexual intercourse, when the muscles are tight during vaginal penetration, it causes severe pelvic pain. How to identify your pelvic floor muscles? If it’s hard for you to identify your pelvic floor, there are some methods you can use to locate them: Contract your pelvic floor by imagining having to hold back a urine stream. You mustn't try this with your bladder full because you run the risk of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Plus, your muscles might become weak from the effort. As you imagine the stream of urine, tighten the muscles to prevent the urine from coming out. Insert a vaginal dilator into your vagina and then squeeze the muscles around the dilator. At this point, you should experience the sensation of your vagina tightening and the upward movement of your pelvic floor. Vaginal dilators come in graduated sizes, starting at the size of your pinky finger, making insertion bearable or more comfortable if you have a hard time relaxing your pelvic floor. Contract or squeeze the muscles that help you to prevent a bowel movement or passing gas. Remember not to contract your buttocks, inner thighs, or abdomen. If your body lifts, even slightly, your butt muscles may be tightening. When this happens, you're not tightening your vaginal muscles but rather the area around the pelvic organ. By identifying your vaginal muscles, you'll be able to practice easing them during vaginal relaxation exercises. If you need further help understanding or identifying your vaginal muscles, speak to your gynecologist or medical professional What causes tense vaginal muscles? Tight vaginal muscles are more common than people think, and the reason can be physiological or psychological, including: See Product See Product See Product See Product Dyspareunia Dyspareunia is an ongoing or recurrent vaginal pain during sexual intercourse. Painful intercourse can occur at any time— before, during, or after sex. The reasons for dyspareunia include: Vaginismus Lack of lubrication during sex Menopause (hormone levels lower natural lubrication) Trauma or injury (childbirth, accident, pelvic surgery) Medication side effect (inhibits desire or reduces lubrication) Skin disorder or injection (eczema or UTI) Radiation or chemotherapy The good news is that treating vaginismus through relaxing vaginal muscles can help women experience pain-free intercourse. Vaginismus Women experiencing vaginismus have an uncontrollable tightening of the muscles around the bottom of the vagina. There are two kinds of vaginismus: primary and secondary. Primary vaginismus is a condition present throughout a woman’s life. It may not become apparent until experiencing pain during sex or pelvic exams, but the state may not have a direct cause. Secondary vaginismus is when a woman has had vaginal penetration without severe pain in the past, but now sex hurts. Anxiety and fear associated with sexual activity have become conditioned and chronic, making penetration extremely painful or impossible. The reason for the sexual dysfunction include: Cancer care (undergoing pelvic floor radiation therapy) Menopause symptoms Experiencing a trauma or injury Medical surgery Relationship issues Side effect from a medication How to relax vaginal muscles? Learning how to relax your vaginal muscles helps ease the pain and tearing associated with vaginismus. The diagnosis and treatment of these conditions usually include a combination of pelvic floor exercise, vaginal dilators, and therapy. VuVa Dilators start at $28.00. They are made in the USA and ship discreetly. Medical advice recommends trying pelvic floor stretching. It’s the stretching of the vaginal muscles through yoga poses. It’s a form of physical therapy that’s gentle and mild, making the muscles stretch in and around the pelvic area. Some of the poses include Child’s Pose, Cobra Pose, and Garland Pose. Practicing gentle stretching not only improves the elasticity of your vaginal muscles but helps improve your mental health. Another way to overcome vaginismus is through vaginal dilators. VuVa™ Vaginal Dilators are tube-shaped devices that come in come in graduated sizes. Clinical research shows dilator therapy is safe and effective. Follow these steps when learning how to relax your vaginal muscles. When you begin using dilators, choose the smallest size that's the most comfortable for your body. It may be at first that you can only tolerate a small part of the dilator. While this is normal, it will improve with time. Find a quiet room where you won’t be interrupted to begin dilator insertion. You don’t want to worry about being interrupted. In a relaxed position, preferably on your back, bend both knees and open your legs. Before insertion, lubricate the dilator with water-based lubricant. Lubrication helps with insertion. You can insert the dilator as far as your comfortable with doing. Once the dilator is in place, stay on your back for 20-30 minutes. Your vaginal muscles may contract and push the dilator out, so keeping it in place with your hand helps with the treatment success. When you can comfortably insert the dilator without pain, your muscles are relaxed. At that point, you move up to the next size dilator. The process of relaxing your pelvic floor muscles may take time. Each woman is different, and it may take a few treatments before the pain improves. Speak to your healthcare professional about the transformative power of vaginal dilators to help relax vaginal muscles. Discover the healing power today. Do you need to order vaginal dilators so you can start your pelvic floor therapy process? 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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Reasons you might need Rectal Dilators and How to Relax Anal Muscles
Loosening a tight, painful rectum the easy way. When you have a tight, painful rectum it's hard to talk about. You might believe that you're the only one experiencing rectal pain and discomfort. But you're not alone. Many men and women suffer from tightness and look for the best way to loosen anal tissue. The good news is that increasing rectal capacity is possible and much easier than you think with anal dilators. It's essential to keep in mind that every rectum is different. Rectums become inflexible for a variety of reasons. The best way to stretch a constricted rectum is with an anal dilator. See Product See Product See Product See Product This article will first explore the reasons for tight rectum and then how to increase the size of the anal canal the easy way with a rectal dilator. Anal dilation is the process of opening up or stretching the anus using small plastic dilator or silicone dilators, so it becomes a normal size. Levator Ani Syndrome is condition characterized by sporadic episodes of pain in the rectum and anus that can cause stress on someone’s everyday activities. Table of Contents: Facts about Levator Ani Syndrome What is Levator Ani Syndrome Causes of Levator Ani Syndrome Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Home Remedies Rectal Dilators Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Facts about levator ani syndrome Here are some key points about levator ani syndrome. More detail and supporting information is in the main article. Levator ani syndrome occurs when a muscle near the rectum - the levator ani muscle - spasms and causes pain. The cause of levator ani syndrome is not very clear, but it is common. Treatment involves managing the symptoms and trying to reduce the pain with pelvic floor therapy in both men and women. Some self-administered and home remedies, including dilators, can give relief for some people with levator ani syndrome. What is levator ani syndrome? Levator ani syndrome is caused by a muscle spasm near to the anus. The pain of levator ani syndrome is caused by a spasm in the levator ani muscle. Pain may radiate to the hips, tailbone, or other areas. This pain is usually unrelated to a bowel movement, and there appear to be no structural abnormalities or underlying conditions responsible for the symptoms. Until 2016, levator ani syndrome was considered to be a form of chronic proctalgia. However, the term chronic proctalgia is now disbanded, and levator ani syndrome is no longer considered a subtype. See Product See Product See Product See Product Causes In levator ani syndrome, the levator ani muscles of the pelvic floor are short, contracted, and weak. This contracted state does not allow for the levator muscles to support its surrounding structures and leads to a decrease in blood blow to the area. After several months, this decrease in blood flow leads to an acidic environment which stimulates an inflammatory cascade. The inflammatory cascade causes an “inflammatory” soup in the pelvis and surrounding area, in addition to inflammation around the nerves. This cascade is ultimately what leads to the pain symptoms described above and lack of muscle coordination for the pelvic floor muscles in levator ani syndrome. There are both local and systemic factors that contribute to causing the symptoms of levator ani syndrome. Locally, unconscious tensing of the pelvic floor muscles from stress and anxiety, contribute to the symptoms. Often this is combined with certain “triggers” or risk factors. Additionally, contributing factors include chronic constipation or loose stools, poor toileting habits usually started as a young child, a history of hemorrhoids or an anal fissure, a history of colorectal or gynecological surgery. Systemically, a genetically wired nervous system with a “dial” or “amplifier” that is turned up or “hyperexcitable” predisposes patients to potentially suffering from levator ani syndrome. Symptoms The symptoms of levator ani syndrome may be relieved when lying down or standing up straight. The symptoms of levator ani syndrome include pain high in the rectum that may be: irregular and spontaneous less than 20 minutes in duration specific or general a dull ache a sense of pressure in the rectum felt when sitting relieved when standing or lying down unrelated to bowel movements severe enough to interrupt sleep Furthermore, a person may feel that passing gas or defecating can give them relief from the pain. In severe cases, the rectal pain may recur frequently and may last for several hours. Diagnosis Diagnosis of levator ani syndrome is based upon excluding other diseases that may be responsible for the symptoms. This may be done through a physical examination and diagnostic testing: Medical history and examination A doctor will first take a full medical history and do a physical examination. A person may experience tenderness in the levator muscle when it is pressed during a rectal examination. A doctor will suspect levator ani syndrome if the individual: Reports chronic or recurrent rectal pain that lasts for at least 20 minutes. Experiences severe tenderness when the levator muscle is touched. Tests Examples of tests to exclude other disorders that may lead to a diagnosis of levator ani syndrome include: stool sample blood test endoscopic procedures imaging tests The tests used will depend on what the doctor considers necessary based on the reported symptoms. Treatment Physical therapy may help to treat levator ani syndrome. Other treatments may include botox injections and sitting on pillows. The treatment options for levator ani syndrome include: Physical therapy: When applied to the pelvis, physical therapy, such as massage, may reduce spasms and cramping in the muscles of the pelvic floor. Electrogalvanic stimulation (EGS): This involves inserting a probe into the anus to administer mild electrical stimulation and has been shown to be more effective than physical therapy. Biofeedback: This technique uses specialized equipment to measure muscle activity while exercises are done. Through the feedback they get, people learn to control or relax certain muscles to reduce symptoms. Botox injections: Botox has been investigated as a potential treatment. A previous study documents relief from spasms due to regular Botox injections. Home Remedies and Relief Home remedies include: Sitz baths: Soaking the anal region in warm water, known as a sitz bath, can provide relief from episodes of anal spasms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs): Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever may help to reduce discomfort. Sitting on a pillow: Some people report that sitting on a donut-shaped pillow reduces the pressure on the anus, which may alleviate symptoms. Gas or bowel movement: Episodes of levator ani spasms may be relieved by passing gas or by a bowel movement. Rectal Dilator Therapy: Due to muscles needing to be relaxed and stretched, home pelvic floor physical therapy is a recommended by most pelvic floor physical therapists. How to Use Rectal Dilators VuVa Rectal Dilator/Anal Dilator Instructions: Please consult with a medical professional before beginning any type of treatment or rectal health therapy. Wash rectal dilators before use with a mild hypoallergenic soap and warm water. Find a comfortable position. Many patients prefer to lie on their left side. However, any comfortable position is appropriate. Lubricate both the anal canal and the tip of the dilator. Proper lubrication will help prevent potential tearing or discomfort due to dryness. Do not use a petroleum-based lubricant because it will increase your risk of infection and be more difficult to wash off. The tip of the dilator should be positioned lightly and at a right angle to the rectum. Exhale and gently ease the dilator into the anal canal. Breathing deeply and inching the dilator deeper with each exhalation will aid penetration. Do not continue if you become tense. Practice controlled breathing and attempt to relax. Remove the dilator if there is any chance you might become hurt or injured. The dilator is fully inserted once the cuff (the flat end) is in contact with the skin. At this point it can be removed immediately. It is not necessary for the dilator to remain within the anal canal. Wash and dry the dilator thoroughly. Hygiene is important to avoid risk of infection during the next use of the rectal dilator. Use a mild hypoallergenic soap and warm water. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Pelvic floor physical therapy is usually prescribed for women who, after a few pregnancies, tend to leak urine. But men can leak, too, especially after surgery for prostate cancer. Men can also suffer from chronic pelvic pain. Physical therapy specific to the pelvic floor muscles can provide relief. What is the pelvic floor? The pelvic floor comprises muscles and connective tissue that support abdominal organs, control the bowels and bladder and are involved in sexual function. What pelvic-related problems are typical for men? The two main symptoms that send men to pelvic floor physical therapy are incontinence (inability to control your urination) and pelvic pain. Men who have had surgery for prostate cancer may have incontinence at least temporarily after their surgery, which is normal. Some men who receive radiation therapy for prostate cancer can also experience incontinence which is normal as well. Another common pelvic problem for men is chronic (ongoing) pelvic pain. Pain can come from the bladder, rectum or prostate (the latter is sometimes called prostatitis). Pain tends to make muscles tighten up, like a constant cramp, and this becomes an uncomfortable cycle: pain leads to muscle tension, which causes more pain. The problem with male pelvic pain is that it’s often misdiagnosed. These men have these symptoms and no one knows what to do with them because they simply do not do research. They often get treated with antibiotics but don’t improve. Sometimes they see multiple specialists before they get diagnosed with pelvic pain and receive comprehensive treatment including PT. The antibiotics that you are given might be causing the pain. But if there’s no actual infection, this will not sure your painful symptoms. What is pelvic floor physical therapy like? There are many aspects to pelvic floor rehab: Education and a frank conversation. The therapist gives men a basic education about their pelvic floor, an often mysterious part of male anatomy. Men don’t tend to think about their pelvic floor. By the time a female sees a doctor, she’s probably had several children and her obstetrician has recommended pelvic floor exercise. Men simply don’t have that experience. On the first visit, the physical therapist has a discussion with men: They ask about their pain symptoms — what their urination is like, what their bowel movements are like, what their sexual activity is like. It is important to answer all questions to create a successful treatment plan. Men with questions about any part of pelvic floor rehab can call or email the physical therapist before the first visit to talk through any concerns. They want to make you feel as comfortable as possible. A physical check up. The pelvic therapist will check strength, flexibility and range of motion in the back and pelvic floor areas. An internal exam. Often the therapist will do a rectal exam with a gloved finger, to feel whether the muscles are weak or in spasm, or have some other dysfunction. Pelvic floor rehab may also involve massaging certain muscles and dilator therapy. Exercises targeting the right muscles. For incontinence, pelvic floor rehab aims to strengthen the muscles controlling urination. For pelvic pain, the aim is coaxing tight muscles to relax. Both will involve exercises that, with practice, will retrain pelvic floor muscles to function properly. There are other exercises beyond Kegels that a therapist will teach men so they can target pelvic floor muscles. How long do most men need to go to pelvic floor rehab? Regular sessions for about 20 weeks – sometimes longer – can help men dramatically strengthen control over urination or treat levator ani syndrome. Pelvic pain can have many factors, so resolving it may take six months or longer, everyone is different based on the severity on pain. Behavioral, lifestyle or emotional challenges are often part of the problem, and men may need to tackle one or more of those issues in addition to getting physical therapy. For example, a person with a high-stress life may need to make life changes and learn to manage stress in addition to getting physical therapy, to prevent pain flare-ups. The frequency of in-person visits to the therapist tapers off as the patient makes progress, especially if he is consistently doing his exercises at home between visits. Do you need pelvic floor physical therapy or rectal dilators? Order your dilators here. 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.
