On this episode of Pelvic Pain unPacked, we talk with Dr. Heather Jeffcoat, DPT, a leader in pelvic health physical therapy and author of Sex Without Pain: A Self-Treatment Guide to the Sex Life You Deserve. We explore how she moved from sports medicine into pelvic health and why she became determined to change what people find when they search for conditions like vaginismus online.
We walk through the differences between vaginismus, vestibulodynia, vulvodynia, and painful bladder syndrome, and how muscles, nerves, and hormones can all play a role in sexual discomfort and bladder symptoms. Heather explains why many people are told “it’s all in your head,” and how pelvic floor physical therapy, thoughtful medical care, and patient education can offer real relief.
Listeners will learn how to recognize common pelvic floor issues, what treatment options might include, and how clear information can replace shame, confusion, and uneasiness with practical next steps.
Get a FREE copy of Heather’s book at sexwithoutpain.com. Use code TAMAR100 to get 100% off at checkout.
In this episode, you will hear:
- Early days of vaginismus information online focused only on psychological causes
- How pelvic floor PT approaches vaginismus and high tone pelvic floor dysfunction
- Differences between vaginismus, vestibulodynia, vulvodynia, and painful bladder syndrome
- Why many patients are told symptoms are “in their head” and how that misses the muscular role
- The role of whole-person care including pelvic PT, medical support, and realistic expectations around surgery
Resources from this Episode
- https://feminapt.com/
- medroots.com
- https://www.amazon.com/Sex-Without-Pain-Treatment-Deserve/dp/1631105817/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
- https://fusionwellnesspt.com/
- https://www.aptapelvichealth.org/
- https://www.pelvicpain.org/
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of MedRoots or the medical community at large. Listeners should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any healthcare-related decisions.
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