i've never been through anything like that or known anyone that has but i think it's a good idea. And it sounds like your therapist knows you pretty well so if she suggested it and you trust her than i think that speaks volumes in favor of giving it a shot. i know none of us are ever a fan of dealing with those parts of our bodies on a medical level, but your physical therapist will be a trained medical professional and therapy should take place in a professional, clean, comfortable environment. This is a highly personal issue and merits being taking seriously and considerately. Some important things that i would advise thinking about:
-Choose a therapist carefully! Vaginismus often has psychological links which would be adversely affected if you aren't comfortable with your therapist and it could end up being unproductive or worse.
-Consider the gender of your physical therapist and whether that will impact your comfort level. Personally, i'm not comfortable with male docs for the paps and things and i always choose females for massage therapists and really any situation where i have to disrobe in any way.
-Ask to schedule a meeting with a potential therapist where no actual therapy will be conducted, just meet, talk with the therapist, get to know them and tell them about you, your history and background with this condition and your concerns and fears. Talk about plans for the physical therapy, what sessions will consist of, how they will be conducted, etc. Be honest and thorough. If you don't feel 100% comfortable after the meeting, find a different therapist.
-Communicate regularly with your therapist throughout the course of treatment about how you're feeling and what you need and what works and doesn't work for you. Be honest and thorough.
-The physical therapy office, environment and staff should make you feel comfortable and welcome and not stressed or nervous.
-If you are uncomfortable with the therapist at ANY time over the course of your work with them, whether during a visit or after or between visits, ANY time, for ANY reason, stop seeing them and find a different therapist, or at least, talk to the therapist about your discomfort. Certainly if the therapist makes you uncomfortable in any way, stop seeing them.
-In my opinion, your therapist and their staff should be ready to bend over backwards, and adopt just about any other contortionist position, to make you feel comfortable with the entire process. From scheduling appointments to the atmosphere of the office to how they talk to you and treat you. Be vocal and communicative about what you need to make you feel safe and comfortable! If, at any point, you aren't being made to feel comfortable, find a new therapist.
-Definitely consider seeing your regular psychology therapist throughout your physical therapy and talk to her about how it's going, especially since she seems like someone you trust and respect.
I think this is a situation that warrants being EXTREMELY picky and choosy about who you work with. It is highly personal and highly sensitive. It's a condition that adversely impacts your life, happiness, psychology, health, stress level, relationships, everything, in a really major way. That makes the outcome of this physical therapy vital and truly life changing! It's really important to do everything you can to maximize success.
Good luck! i wish you every success.
You might consider, after or during your course of therapy, posting about it for others who may be considering a similar method of treating vaginismus, if you're comfortable sharing. i know there are other women on the boards here with that condition who might benefit from your experience.
