[Sks823]

Hello, I had a successful birth in 2024 after curing my vaginismus at Maze in NYC with dilators in late 2016! I did have an epidural. Before the epidural, when they checked to see how dilated I was it was painful. Aside from that and getting a tear during birth, the birth was pretty smooth! Any specific questions, let me know!

[Sks823]

Hello,

I think there are from a quick google search: “pelvic floor therapy vaginismus UK” – several popped up including some that mention the botox procedure. However I’m not sure what city they’re in so it’d be better to include the city in the google search!

Vaginismus

https://drnyaesthetics.com/gynaecology/vaginismus-treatment/

A couple but there were tons when I googled!

[Sks823]

I agree with Melissa, also don’t forget to use (water-based) lube to help with that sensation!

[Sks823]

Hi sad_magpie, I agree with Cathleen – it’s not too late to seek help/treatment!

[Sks823]

Not sure if my first message went through because I added links to it which might not be allowed, but yes I think there are based on a quick google search “pelvic floor therapy vaginismus UK” where a bunch of clinics popped up, including some that referenced the botox procedure.

It would be more useful to include the city that they live in in the google search instead of just UK but my first search seemed promising!

[Sks823]

Hi AmalieJasmine,

So sorry you’re dealing with this! I echo what Cathleen says.

From what I know, PCOS is normally pretty quick to be diagnosed at an OBGYN (I got tested for it once – they did a quick ultrasound to check for cysts on my ovaries). Endometriosis is also common and related to painful periods (and could be related to painful intercourse), but it’s a bit harder to diagnose – however, you could ask your doctor about that next time too.

I agree seeing a specialist in vaginismus/dyspareunia would help. Sometimes taking the first step to make the appointment(s) is the hardest part about treatment! but I really feel for you and hope you can get this resolved <3

[Sks823]

Wow — this is such an interesting thread! Thanks all! Hope Mark2021 pops back up and can talk with you, emiliamars

[Sks823]

Hi SavannaK98,

The fact that you’ve seeked help and are on your journey of overcoming vaginismus is SUCH a huge step! I truly applaud you for taking that step to go to pelvic floor therapy to help and counseling. I hadn’t been able to put in a tampon before also – I had vaginismus for several years until 2016 (I was 23-24) when I went to Maze’s clinic in NYC and ‘graduated’ from the dilating program!

I think I was a very difficult case – like you, I couldn’t wear tampons from the pain/fear, and the thought of dilating with even the smallest dilator gave me immense fear. The physical portion of the first couple appointments were incredibly nerve-wracking; I was prescribed Xanax to take before each following appointment.

But I got through it in 2016 and if I could do it SO CAN YOU! I definitely had times when I thought I couldn’t go further but I powered through, knowing it would feel so amazing and fulfilling and clear sooooooo much mental energy to not have the ‘weight’ of vaginismus on my shoulders!

So looking forward to reading more about your journey and glad you have taken the first steps! I hope this gives you some inspiration 🙂

[Sks823]

Hi Kemk2000,

Yes, I can definitely relate! I bought dilators on my own too but was unable to use them until I went to Maze in NYC about 7-8 years ago. I think I also would feel nausea at the start too. Maze helped me a bit with the anxiety, inserted them for me and also taught me how to do it on my own (which initially took time but I eventually was able to). I didn’t end up needing to do the botox although they had thought I was a good candidate for it due to my anxiety/issues with the dilators at first. I tried and tried and DIDN’T GIVE UP (THIS IS CRUCIAL – I remember trying and trying to insert as my ‘homework’ after my first couple of appointments at Maze, and I really wanted to give up but I didn’t). I was able to graduate through all the dilators after some time with my Maze appointments!

Finding a pelvic floor therapist / vaginismus specialist could really help you too, as hopefully my similar story gives you some encouragement!

Hope you’re doing well

[Sks823]

Hi Leslie,

I agree with Melissa! You have done such an AMAZING job with the dilators, I’m so happy for you!

I think small setbacks are normal (coming from someone else who used dilators [with the help of Maze, ~8 years ago]). Maybe taking a couple days off or being in a different part of your cycle can change the sensations/etc.. I definitely wouldn’t be worried but it’s great you’re seeing a doc just to rule out a UTI or BV or something like that. Moving down a size or two in dilators would be a good thing to do to ease your discomfort and worry.

Keep us updated!

[Sks823]

Hi all!

Bumping this thread as i would love to hear experiences of labor and birth after healing from vaginismus!

I’ve read a few on this forum before but would love to hear more.

Thanks!

[Sks823]

@bettyslocombe BEST. NEWS. EVER!!!!!!!!! Congratulations, you are AMAZING!!!

[Sks823]

Hi Jackobs,

Glad you found the forum. The advice above is super helpful and I agree with it all – understand since you’re a bit young that buying dilators might be difficult or impossible (if you don’t want your parents knowing) – let us know if there’s anything we can do to help!

[Sks823]

Feelinghopeful,

OMG! I love your success story! Lots of ups and downs, you’ve definitely BEEN THROUGH IT throughout your life. That gynecologist story is so maddening. I’m so happy that you’ve been able to get through the adversity and come out on the other side so so much happier with a normal sex life. I’m sure your husband is thrilled as well 🙂 glad you had a supportive partner to help you get through this!

Thanks again for sharing, this story will definitely help others!

[Sks823]

Hi SamantaH,

This is so useful for so many of us! Thanks so much for posting. And thanks mazemelissa for the Cialis/Viagra suggestion as well – totally agree with that 🙂

Thanks!

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