Pelvic pain, often accompanied by discomfort during sexual activity, can significantly impact quality of life. Common culprits include muscle spasm and overactivity, hypersensitivity and scar tissue affecting the pelvic floor and vulva. These "tissue issues" can restrict blood flow, irritate nerves, and limit flexibility, leading to pain and dysfunction.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers a comprehensive approach to addressing these problems. A physiotherapist can assess your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan, often involving manual therapy techniques to restore flexibility and blood flow and to desensitize the area. To enhance the benefits of these sessions, many therapists recommend using a pelvic floor wand at home.
A pelvic floor wand is a curved tool with a thin tip that can help you replicate your therapist's techniques between appointments. The BIEN Australia Pelvic Floor Wand was specifically designed to reach the deep pelvic floor muscles in a shape that mimics a therapist's finger (yep, giving your pelvic floor a massage is totally a physio technique). A wand enables you to continue your treatment in the comfort and privacy of your own home. However, proper use is key to prevent exacerbating symptoms.
Getting Started
- Hygiene is Essential: Always clean your wand thoroughly before and after each use with warm water and mild soap.
- Relax and Recline: Find a comfortable position, such as lying on your back with knees bent (try dropping them out like a butterfly) and pillows behind for support (doing sit ups is not relaxing). Other positions to try include laying on your side or iwhilst standing with one foot up on a chair.
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Lubrication is Essential: Use a water-based, glycerin-free lubricant to reduce friction and discomfort. We recommend covering the end and about 5-7cm of the wand (a dry wand can be really uncomfortable).
Using the Pelvic Wand
- Gentle Insertion: Bring the wand into the entrance of your vagina. The rounded end can be better for first time use and the more pointed end can be better for more precise and deeper trigger point therapy.
- Relaxation: Take three deep breaths, allowing your belly to rise and fall naturally.
- Insertion: Gently insert the wand into the vagina with the curved side facing downward. Only go as deep as you feel comfortable with, or as directed by your health professional.
- Sweeping Motion: Once inside, sweep the wand from left to right, identifying any areas of tenderness or pain.
- Targeted Pressure: When you find a tender spot, apply moderate pressure and continue to breathe deeply. Keep your pelvic floor and hips relaxed. Hold for 30-60 seconds, or until you can feel the muscle starting to relax.
- Repeat as Needed: Move on to other tender areas, repeating the process as necessary.
Frequency of Use: You can use the wand daily or as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Tips for Success
- Use Adequate Lubrication: This is crucial for comfort and to prevent irritation.
- Experiment with Positions: Find a position that feels most comfortable and allows for effective use of the wand.
- Switch Hands: If needed, try using your other hand to guide the wand.
- Monitor Symptoms: If your pain increases or becomes unbearable, stop using the wand and consult your therapist.
- Avoid Nerve Pressure: Be mindful of any sharp or shooting pain, as this may indicate nerve irritation.
- Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate deep breathing and relaxation techniques to enhance the benefits of your wand therapy.
Remember: Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and to ensure proper use of a pelvic floor wand.
