What are some causes of vaginal pain or painful sexual intercourse and how can physical therapy help?
Childbirth and episiotomy or tearing from a vaginal delivery can trigger vaginal pain or painful sexual intercourse which may persist after delivery. Other causes can be past physical or emotional trauma such as an impact injury or sexual abuse. A physical therapist can help by using biofeedback to improve relaxation of the pelvic floor, manual therapy to relax and align the muscles and fascia, scar tissue mobilization, and electrical stimulation. Relaxation techniques such as tapping along emotional meridians are frequently helpful.
