Resources for Sexual Pain

Experiencing sexual pain can be isolating, but numerous resources are available to provide support, education, and effective treatment options. Below is a curated guide to help you navigate this journey, featuring insightful books, informative blogs, and reputable pelvic floor therapists.

Recommended Books on Sexual Pain and Healing

1. Healing Painful Sex by Deborah Coady, MD, and Nancy Fish, MSW, MPH
   This comprehensive guide offers a compassionate approach to understanding and treating sexual pain. It covers various conditions, including vaginismus, vulvodynia, and dyspareunia, providing practical advice and therapeutic techniques.

2. When Sex Hurts by Andrew Goldstein, MD, Caroline Pukall, PhD, Irwin Goldstein, MD, and Jill Krapf, MD
   A detailed resource that delves into the causes of sexual pain and presents evidence-based treatments. The authors discuss topics such as pelvic floor dysfunction, hormonal changes, and psychological factors affecting sexual health.

3. The Pleasure Prescription by Dee Hartmann
   This book explores the connection between pleasure and healing, offering strategies to overcome sexual pain and reclaim a fulfilling sex life. It emphasizes the importance of self-care and mindfulness in the healing process.

4. You Are Not Broken by Heather Jeffcoat, DPT
   A practical guide focusing on overcoming sexual pain through pelvic floor physical therapy. The book provides exercises, tips, and insights to help individuals regain control and comfort in their sexual experiences.

Informative Blogs and Articles

• Beyond Basics Physical Therapy – Sexual Pain & Dysfunction
  This resource offers in-depth information on various sexual pain conditions and how pelvic floor physical therapy can aid in their treatment. It covers topics like vaginismus, dyspareunia, and pain after childbirth. beyondbasicsphysicaltherapy.com

• Pelvic Pain Rehab – Better Orgasms for EveryBODY
  An insightful blog post discussing how pelvic floor physical therapy can enhance sexual pleasure and address issues like pelvic pain and dysfunction. beyondbasicsphysicaltherapy.com

• PT Help – Help for Painful Sex: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
  An article explaining how pelvic floor physical therapy can reduce and eliminate sexual pain, highlighting techniques such as manual therapy and biofeedback. Raquel Perlis PT Pelvic Floor Therapists Specializing in Sexual Pain

Additional Resources for Emotional and Psychological Support

• Effective Treatment of Women's Pelvic and Sexual Pain Disorders by Davidson
  This book offers a comprehensive overview of pelvic and sexual pain disorders in women, equipping therapists to treat these issues in a culturally sensitive way. It examines the link between unwanted sexual experiences and the development of sexual pain in later life. Routledge

• Hello, Down There by Dr. Susie G.
  A one-of-a-kind review of cutting-edge scientific information on the etiology of chronic pain, with special focus on pelvic and sexual pain disorders. Amazon

If you're navigating sexual pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, or seeking to reclaim your sexual health, social media offers a wealth of accessible, expert-led resources. Many pelvic floor physical therapists and sexual health educators are actively sharing evidence-based information, personal stories, and practical tools to support healing and empowerment.

Here are some notable social media content creators to follow:

Dr. Sara Reardon (@the.vagina.whisperer)

United States

A pelvic floor physical therapist offering insights on pelvic health, pregnancy, postpartum care, and menopause. Known for her approachable and informative content. Instagram

Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas (@thepelvicdancefloor)

United States

A pelvic health physical therapist who uses humor and education to discuss pelvic health topics, aiming to reduce stigma and promote understanding. College of Public Health

Dr. Susie Gronski (@drsusiegronski)

United States

A pelvic floor therapist providing information on pelvic health, sexual wellness, and pain management, with a focus on inclusivity and education. 

Dr. Tziona Wyner (@drtziona)

United States

A pelvic health expert sharing insights on trauma-informed care, pelvic health education, and strategies for healing sexual pain. 

Hina Sheth (@pelvicpainrehab)

United States

A pelvic health professional offering resources on pelvic pain, sexual health, and rehabilitation, with a focus on patient education. 

Victoria Burns (@the.vagina.whisperer)

United States

A pelvic health advocate sharing personal experiences and educational content related to pelvic health and wellness. 

These professionals provide a range of content, from educational posts and videos to personal stories and practical exercises. Following them can offer valuable insights and support on your journey toward healing.

As a sex therapist that works virtually throughout Texas, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Illinois, and Colorado I love helping people struggling with sexual pain. You do not have to struggle alone.