If you’re struggling with painful sex (dyspareunia), please know you are not alone, and healing is possible. This condition is far more common than you think, affecting up to 21% of women and 5% of men, yet it’s often shrouded in shame, silence, and confusion. In this episode of Bottoms Up, expert pelvic health physical therapist Dr. Kerry Winge pulls back the curtain on why intercourse might be painful and what you can do about it. We explore the core question: what are the hidden causes of painful intimacy, and how can you find a path to relief and pleasure?

This episode is a comprehensive guide for anyone experiencing pelvic pain, whether it’s burning, sharp sensations, or deep aching during or after intimacy. Dr. Kerry Winge of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy of Morgantown shares powerful, anonymous stories from real patients – from teens unable to use a tampon to new mothers experiencing pain after childbirth, and even men dealing with perineal aching after orgasm. We dive deep into the causes of painful intercourse, which often involve a complex mix of physical factors (muscle tension, hormonal shifts, scar tissue) and the emotional impact of pelvic pain (fear, anxiety, trauma, and relationship stress). Dr. Winge explains that your body isn’t broken; it’s trying to protect you. We also demystify the dyspareunia treatment process, explaining that relief often comes from a combination of therapies. You’ll learn what to expect during a diagnosis, including the gentle “Q-tip test,” and why clear communication with your practitioner is vital. The conversation highlights why pelvic floor physical therapy for painful sex is a cornerstone of healing, as it helps release muscle tension, retrain the nervous system, and restore mobility. This isn’t just about “fixing” a problem; it’s about reclaiming your connection to your body and finding joy in intimacy again. If you’ve ever been dismissed or told “it’s all in your head,” this episode offers the validation, education, and hope you deserve.

TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS:
(00:00) A Message for Those in Pain
(01:50) Voices of Pelvic Pain: Real Patient Stories
(04:25) What is Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse)?
(05:34) The Physical & Emotional Causes of Painful Sex
(06:36) The Emotional Toll: Shame, Guilt, and Communication
(07:32) How to Get Diagnosed: What to Expect at Your Appointment
(09:49) A Guide to Treatment Options (Therapy, Lubricants, Dilators & More)
(13:21) Why Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is a Key Part of Healing
(14:18) Answering Your Questions: Postpartum Pain, Male Pelvic Pain & Endometriosis
(15:42) A Final Message of Hope: Pleasure is Your Right

LEARN MORE & EPISODE RESOURCES:
Learn more about Dr. Kerry Winge’s work