Gentle Relief: How Osteopathy Can Help with Painful Sex 

Pain during or after sex, also known as dyspareunia, is a surprisingly common issue that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and relationships. It’s a topic often shrouded in silence, but it’s important to know that help is available and you don’t have to suffer alone. 

The causes of painful sex are varied and can be complex. They might include: 

• Muscle Tension: The pelvic floor muscles can become tight or go into spasm due to stress, injury, or learned guarding patterns. This tension can lead to a feeling of deep, aching pain or a sharp, stabbing sensation. 
• Post-Surgical Scar Tissue: Procedures like caesareans, hysterectomies, or episiotomies can leave behind scar tissue that restricts movement and causes discomfort. 
• Nerve Irritation: Nerves in the pelvic region can become irritated or compressed, leading to burning, tingling, or shooting pain. 
• Postural Issues: Poor posture can place undue strain on the pelvis and its supporting structures, contributing to muscle imbalances and pain. 

This is where osteopathic pelvic health treatment can offer a gentle, holistic approach. Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the body’s interconnectedness, treating the person as a whole, not just the symptoms. 

At our clinic, we provide a safe and supportive environment to discuss your concerns. Our experienced osteopaths are trained in both external and internal pelvic health techniques. We understand the sensitivity of this area, and all treatments, including internal examinations, are only ever performed with your full and explicit consent. 

What might a session involve?

A treatment plan would be tailored to your specific needs, but could include: 

• External techniques: Gentle massage and stretching of the lower back, hips, and abdomen to release tension and improve blood flow. 
• Internal techniques (if appropriate and consented to): Using a gloved finger, we can assess and treat the internal pelvic floor muscles directly to release knots and improve muscle function. 
• Scar tissue work: We can use specific techniques to gently mobilise and soften scar tissue, improving its elasticity and reducing pain. 
• Breathing and movement exercises: We’ll provide you with simple exercises to help you regain control and awareness of your pelvic floor muscles, empowering you to manage your symptoms at home. 

The goal of osteopathic treatment is to reduce pain, restore normal function, and help you feel more comfortable and confident in your body. We believe in providing a compassionate and confidential space for you to heal. If you’re experiencing pain with intimacy, please know that you’re not alone and there are effective, gentle treatments available.