Dr. Jenny Porter is a physical therapist at Pivotal PT & Wellness in Mandeville, Louisiana, specializing in pelvic floor therapy for men, women, and children with bladder, bowel, sexual, and pain dysfunctions. This episode was dedicated to bringing awareness to what it means to have a normally functioning pelvic floor.

Here is some of what was discussed:

-A normal pelvic floor vs changes identified that cause pain

-What causes pain with intercourse? What is vaginismus? What about postpartum?

-The range of pain intensities possible (mild, moderate, severe)

-Should a tampon ever hurt? An OB/GYN visit?

-Can my husband be "too big?"

-Should I bring my teen, or even younger daughter to pelvic floor PT if she has pelvic pain?

-How does endometriosis cause painful sex? Why do I still have pain after surgery?

-What does treatment look like? How long can it take?

-What is a dilator and do I have to use one? Is this licit?

-If I have tightness/painful intercourse, does this increase my risk of tearing during labor?

Mary shares a bit about her personal experience with pelvic floor tightness, painful intercourse, and pelvic floor physical therapy. Since Jenny is her PT, they were able to offer a unique perspective of these situations. This is an honest conversation about the most intimate parts of a woman’s body. We know that this can be a sensitive subject, and please know that we did our best to handle it with care. We won’t shy away from these difficult conversations because we believe they are important and often do lead to healing.

Links mentioned in the episode:

S1 E3: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy with Drs. Emily and Jenny by The Intersect: The Official Podcast of FAbM Base (anchor.fm)

Dynamix PT & Wellness - Physical Therapy, Dry Needling (pivotalptandwellness.com)