[Arch456]

Hello all, just wanted to provide an update on my situation. So we did an IUI procedure last month to get pregnant but were not successful and are trying again this month. As part of the IUI treatment, I had to have a transvaginal ultrasound done twice and have a speculum inserted for the actual IUI insemination. My doctor was very understanding and she briefed the sonographer and the nurse who did the procedures on my condition. I took a Valium before each visit to the doctors office and they were very patient and worked with me. It takes a while (at least 15 to 30 minutes) but we have been able to insert the ultrasound probe and speculum all the way in each time.

I have also made progress during my pelvic floor physical therapy sessions. My therapist is very happy with my progress at the sessions. But until today, I was not able to insert the dilator all the way in on my own at home. I usually give up after 10 to 15 minutes when I hit a sore or painful spot and usually only get about one inch in. But today, I decided to continue slowly and after about 30 minutes or so, I managed to insert the dilator all the way in. It’s the smallest dilator that I have been using for months but it still felt like a huge achievement for me and wanted to share it with y’all.

I feel more confident now about overcoming this condition. I know it’s taking some time now but at least I consciously know that it is possible to insert a dilator/ultrasound probe/speculum/finger. So with time and practice, hopefully insertion and penetration will be possible without too much difficulty.

[Arch456]

Thank you Heather and Recessivegenequeen for your kind and encouraging words. It’s motivating to hear from you ladies who have overcome vaginismus and gives me hope that I can get there too! Will definitely update on my progress and reach out for advice along the way.

[Arch456]

Thank you Heather and Melissa. Sorry about the delay in responding. So I had the fertility tests done under anaesthesia. But the doctors decided not to proceed with the hymen surgery as the hymen did expand during the other procedures that were being done. So it appears that the hymen itself is not actually a barrier to penetration.

I have continued with stretching and dilation at home. But was not able to get the smallest dilator more than an inch inside. However, today when I went to the doctor’s office to attempt an ultrasound and insertion of speculum, I actually managed to do it! It took a while but with my doctor being patient and the assistant being helpful and encouraging, we managed to get the ultrasound probe all the way in. She also inserted a speculum that is bigger and longer than the pediatric one that I have been able to tolerate so far. It felt like a major improvement given that 3 months ago, it was impossible to even get the ultrasound probe in and I would have literally cried seeing the size of the speculum.

I am booking more physical therapy appointments now to continue and hopefully be able to make further and consisten improvement.

[Arch456]

Thank you for your kind message Jennifer. It helps to know that there are others out there who have the same condition and have managed to cure the condition through treatment. This forum has been helpful in answering alot of the questions I have had. I have also forwarded my husband the thread for partners, hoping that it helps him understand the condition better, see how partners can be supportive and gives him hope reading about success stories of overcoming the condition.

[Arch456]

Thank you for your advice and suggestions Melissa. I think I will continue trying to use the syringe as far as it goes. And also use the valium as suggested to attempt penetration. I would like to see if it helps penetration further than what we have managed thus far.

I have been looking at dilators and do intend to buy a set to use in conjunction with pelvic floor PT. But there are so many different types (plastic, glass, silicone) and sizes. I figured it might be better to see a physical therapist first and get a recommendation on which would be most suitable for me. But from your experience, how would you normally advise someone on which dilators to pick?

Thanks again.

[Arch456]

My gynae has also prescribed valium to be inserted into the vagina before attempting penetrative intercourse. I have not tried it yet. Has anyone used valium and does it work in reducing the pain? I do note that even if it does, it is only temporary relief and does not replace proper treatment. But just wondering if it offers sufficient relief from the pain to have intercourse?

[Author]

Posts