Written by Azia To, Dilator Founder and Fitness and Wellness Educator

It's not always easy to talk about intimate health issues, but it's important that we do. Conditions like vaginismus and vulvodynia can significantly impact daily life and make using traditional menstrual products like tampons and period cups difficult or even impossible. It can feel isolating if you're struggling with these conditions, but knowing that you're not alone is essential. There are alternatives available that can provide comfort and freedom during your period. Let's explore how vaginismus and vulvodynia can affect the use of tampons and period cups and how period underwear can be a viable and empowering solution.

What is Vaginismus and Vulvodynia?

Vaginismus is a condition where the pelvic floor muscles contract involuntarily, causing pain and discomfort during penetration, including the insertion of tampons or period cups. While Vulvodynia refers to chronic pain or discomfort in the vulva, the external genitalia. Both conditions can make using tampons or period cups extremely painful or even impossible, leading to frustration, embarrassment, and a sense of isolation. It's important to remember that you're not alone. Many individuals experience vaginismus and vulvodynia, and there are supportive communities and resources available to help. See @azia_mery on TikTok as a patient-led example. Creator, Azia is a queer 24-year-old that has had vaginismus and vulvodynia since 18. With years of experience with pelvic floor therapists and gynecologists, they can now experience pleasurable insertion. Over time, they have created a safe online community where people feel less alone on their journey, receive help and resources from medical professionals, and find treatment options that may work for them. TikTok is just one of the hundred places to receive support and advice if you are experiencing vaginismus or vulvodynia. There are other safe spaces in online forums, support groups, and advocacy organizations where you can share experiences, seek advice, and find comfort in knowing that others understand what you're going through.

Comfort and Freedom:

Period Underwear and How It Works Period underwear is designed to absorb menstrual flow without tampons, pads, or cups. They typically have multiple layers that wick away moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the day. Period underwear looks traditional and comes in various styles, like bikini, hipster, and high-waisted.

Period Underwear Benefits

One of the benefits of period underwear is that it eliminates the need for inserting anything into the vagina, making it a viable option for individuals with vaginismus or vulvodynia who may experience pain or discomfort with other menstrual products. Period underwear is also reusable, which means less waste and a more sustainable choice for the environment. Another benefit of period underwear is that it provides a sense of ease and convenience. With period underwear, there's no need to worry about changing tampons or emptying cups throughout the day, which can be incredibly challenging for those with vaginismus or vulvodynia. You can simply wear them like regular underwear and go about your day without the added stress or discomfort.

No More Shame: Non-Insertion Period Products Are Cool Too

Using period underwear can also help raise awareness about vaginismus and vulvodynia. By choosing period underwear as an alternative, you can start conversations about these conditions and help break the silence surrounding intimate health issues. Sharing your experience and journey with others can create community and support and inspire others to seek help or explore alternative options.

Next Steps with Vaginismus and Vulvodynia

You can take other steps to make living with vaginismus and vulvodynia easier. Communication with your healthcare provider is crucial. Some specialists can help you, like a Pelvic Floor therapist. A Pelvic Floor therapist is a physical therapist specializing in the internal and external muscles of the pelvic floor. These therapists are trained in helping those with conditions like Vaginismus and Vulvodynia. They can provide guidance, offer treatment options, and connect you with resources and support groups. Exploring relaxation techniques, such as pelvic floor relaxation exercises, dilator therapy, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices, can also help manage pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.

Whether you’ve been diagnosed with vaginismus or vulvodynia or are still searching for a diagnosis, there are many resources and options. Check out @azia_mery on TikTok for an insight into daily life and treatment, explore resources from The Cleveland Clinic, and consider Monthly for comfortable and sustainable period underwear.