If sex is painful, you have options
Summary
This Life Kit episode features pelvic floor physical therapist Janelle Frederick discussing dyspareunia, or painful sex. She explains that pain is not normal and outlines potential causes, from hormonal changes to vaginismus and trauma. The conversation covers how to communicate with partners, when to seek medical help, and simple at-home exercises like child’s pose and diaphragmatic breathing to relieve pelvic tension.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Painful sex is not normal
How to communicate with partners about pain
Understanding dyspareunia and its prevalence
Medical causes: Hormones, vaginismus, and trauma
Pelvic floor physical therapy and treatment timelines
Home exercises: Child's pose and breathing
Recap of key takeaways and credits
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