Sex Education // Category

Written by Roshni Ravi, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist.

Sexual health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being, but it’s not always an easy topic to talk about. Many women experience sexual health dysfunctions at some point in their lives, but they may feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help by way of pelvic floor physiotherapy. There are currently large gaps in the sexual education provided at the elementary school level. Many sex ed classes are focused on birth control and how terrible periods are.

But there is not enough information, if any, on sexual health conditions and how to seek help. We’ve had a lot of conversations with patients about what they wish they had learned in sex-ed.  In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most commonly asked questions about sexual health dysfunctions in women and offer some tips for managing them.

What is pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy focuses on treating the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic floor which is a group of muscles that form a supportive hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis. They play a key role in maintaining continence, supporting the pelvic organs, and providing stability to the spine and hips.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy involves a range of exercises, manual therapy techniques, and education to help individuals with pelvic floor dysfunction. Common conditions that may benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy include:

• urinary and fecal incontinence,
• pelvic pain,
• pelvic organ prolapse, and
• sexual dysfunction.

Why am I suffering from a low libido? Can pelvic floor physiotherapy help?

Many women experience a decrease in sexual desire at some point in their lives. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, and relationship issues. To manage low libido, it’s important to address any underlying issues and make self-care a priority. This can include:

• practicing stress-management techniques,
• getting enough sleep, and
• engaging in regular exercise.

Why does it hurt to have sex?

Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, is a common sexual health dysfunction in women. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including vaginal dryness, infections, and hormonal imbalances. To manage painful intercourse, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan. This may include using:

• lubricants,
• treating infections,
• or using hormonal therapy.

I struggle to orgasm during sex, why does that happen?

Many women struggle to achieve orgasm during sexual activity which can be caused by a variety of factors, including, stress, relationship issues, and hormonal imbalances. To manage orgasmic dysfunction, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider or therapist to address any underlying issues and develop strategies for improving sexual function. This may include:

• practicing mindfulness or
• engaging in self-exploration techniques.

My vagina feels like a fort that is impenetrable. Why can I not have sexual intercourse?

Vaginismus is a condition in which the muscles of the vaginal wall contract involuntarily, making intercourse difficult or impossible. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including past trauma and anxiety. To manage vaginismus, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider or therapist to address any underlying issues and develop strategies for managing anxiety and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles.

What is vulvodynia? Do I need pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition that affects the vulva, or external genitalia. It can cause burning, stinging, or itching sensations, and can make sexual activity painful or uncomfortable. To manage vulvodynia, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan. This may include:

• using topical creams or medications,
• practicing relaxation techniques, or
• seeing a pelvic health physiotherapist.

Help! I pee my pants!

Urinary incontinence is a common condition in which urine leaks from the bladder involuntarily. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, pregnancy, and pelvic floor dysfunction. To manage urinary incontinence, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider or pelvic floor physiotherapist to develop a treatment plan. This may include:

• pelvic floor exercises,
• bladder training, or
• medications.

What are the signs of menopause?

Menopause can cause a variety of changes in sexual function, including vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and painful intercourse. To manage these changes, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan. This may include:

• using hormonal therapy,
• vaginal moisturizers, or
• engaging in regular sexual activity to maintain pelvic floor health.

Where can I find a pelvic health physiotherapist near me?

We have 8 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists to help you.

• Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
• Oakville Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
• Pelvic Health Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
• Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
• Downtown Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
• Uptown Toronto Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
• Pelvic Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
• Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills

In conclusion…

Many women experience sexual health dysfunctions at some point in their lives, but they may feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help. It’s important to remember that sexual health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being, and it’s important to prioritize it in your self-care routine. If you’re experiencing any issues related to sexual function, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider or a therapist about your options. Remember, there is help!

Click here to book your consultation with one of our knowledgeable and compassionate pelvic health physiotherapists.

“Pelvic floor physiotherapy is essential for improving sexual health and overall well-being. Triangle Physiotherapy offers specialized pelvic health services across the GTA, including Physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. Our experienced team can help you address pelvic floor issues and enhance your sexual health through personalized treatment plans.”