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Vaginismus/Penetration Problem
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Anonymous
| I'm wondering if any women who have suffered from this problem could please share any tips/advice. I've been struggling with penetration trouble (the classic, husband feels like he's "hitting a brick wall") for a while now. Because I tense up easily, internal examination by a physician is not really possible. It's such a humiliating, personal challenge that is extremely tough to talk with anyone about. I feel so isolated and ashamed of myself (doesn't feel very feminine and normal, to say the least, that I can't interact with my husband as is so easy and enjoyable for many women out there). Thanks in advance. |
Anonymous
| I have vulvodynia that can lead to similar problems. I highly recommend physical therapy - Rene Lawson in NW is amazing (http://www.nrhrehab.org/Locations/Locations_Page.aspx?id=2). As odd as it may seem, it really helps a lot. You could also try Lucy Treene in Dr. James A Simon's office (http://www.jamesasimonmd.com/index_sub.php?nav=1&action=r). She is a nurse practioner who deals with pelvic pain issues. Very helpful, as well. |
Anonymous
| Hi PP, Thank you for writing. I appreciate any suggestions, though would prefer someone in Maryland for convenience ... It's wonderful to hear that there are professionals out there to help with this problem. Now, I just need to muster up my courage to get the help ... |
Anonymous
|
PP here -
I highly recommend looking into getting some treatment. It can make a HUGE difference in your quality of life. I am in MD but made trips into DC for treatment. If you join the NVA (http://www.nva.org/physician_referral.html) - they have a physician referral program that may be helpful. (I am not sure how much it costs to join). Also - the Intercistical Cystitis Network Lists people who help with pelvic floor issues on their website (http://www.ic-network.com/md/listings/Maryland.html) which lists a physical therapist in Bethesda who could probably also help. I have never seen her - but it may be worth looking into. |
Anonymous
| I really sympathize - I have a different cause to my problem, but same result. I agree, it is a very hard topic to discuss. I finally mustered up my courage (or, more aptly, squashed down my embarassment) and had a frank convo with my gyno and she was fantastic. No embarassment, no judgment - she gave me lots of useful advice and suggestions, some of which I've put into place and others which I've yet to employ (but, baby steps!). I don't know what, if anything, of this will be useful to you (remember, different cause here), but she suggested: using prescriptions for internal and external estrogen replenishment; using a vaginal dialator regularly; using lots of lube, like Pur. |
Anonymous
|
12:16, Thank you for writing again ... I quickly looked at the Bethesda provider, and it seems that the service provided likely is not covered by medical insurance. I'm not opposed to any payment, but it is a consideration if say nothing is covered (surely I'd have more than 1 appointment). I'll have to find out more ...
PP, It's wonderful you did overcome the embarrassment (well put, I think that is the same for me, too), and that you have a great doctor. I don't have a good physician just now, so that's a huge hurdle ... I know we all go through this, but unless I can somehow know in advance who will be a good match for me, the thought of going through everything again (appointment securing -- which might be weeks or months ahead; filling out forms; then finally seeing the doctor) ... only to learn again that the physician isn't going to be helpful, is already an exhausting, discouraging thought. I know, need to keep the spirit/perseverance up ... |
Anonymous
| OP - that is odd about the insurance issue. My pelvic floor PT was covered by insurance. I only had to pay my co-pay. I would think insurance would pay for it if you have a diagnosis that would warrant it - and vaginismus should. I would definitely look into it. |
Anonymous
| Thanks PP, I will have to look into this further. It's good to hear that you were covered, so maybe I also will have a similar outcome. |