The Sensate Space

Learn how to effectively advocate for yourself in healthcare settings when seeking help for pelvic and sexual pain conditions like vaginismus and endometriosis. Discover the DEARMAN technique and broken record strategy to assert your needs confidently. SHOWNOTES: ⁠⁠https://www.thesensatespace.com/POD1⁠2 FREE GUIDE FOR PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS: ⁠⁠https://thesensatespace.com/empowered/⁠⁠ (for people wi...

This episode will focus on how psychology fits within understanding and treating genito-pelvic pain penetration disorder (GPPPD), aka vaginismus and dyspareunia. We explore biological/physical, psychological, and environmental (social/contextual) factors and discuss its importance for all three areas to be addressed in a treatment plan. SHOWNOTES: ⁠⁠https://www.thesensatespace.com/POD11⁠ FREE GUID...

Join us as we dispel common myths about genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, a pelvic and sexual pain condition encompassing vaginismus and dyspareunia.  SHOWNOTES: ⁠⁠https://www.thesensatespace.com/POD10⁠ FREE GUIDE FOR PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS: ⁠⁠https://thesensatespace.com/empowered/⁠⁠ (for people with anxiety + pain with pap smear and similar). STICKERS + HELPFUL THINGS: ⁠⁠https://thesensates...

Psychologist provides six tips for managing symptoms of sexual pain conditions such as vaginismus (/GPPPD), dyspareunia, endometriosis. SHOWNOTES: ⁠⁠https://www.thesensatespace.com/POD9⁠ FREE GUIDE FOR PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS: ⁠⁠https://thesensatespace.com/empowered/⁠⁠ (for people with anxiety + pain with pap smear and similar). STICKERS + HELPFUL THINGS: ⁠⁠https://thesensatespace.com/shop/⁠⁠ IMPORT...

Is it common? What are the other factors that impact? This episode is a super-short snapshot of recent research into the prevalence of GPPPD (aka vaginismus/dyspareunia). SHOWNOTES: ⁠⁠https://www.thesensatespace.com/POD8⁠ FREE GUIDE FOR PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS: ⁠⁠https://thesensatespace.com/empowered/⁠⁠ (for people with anxiety + pain with pap smear and similar). STICKERS + HELPFUL THINGS: ⁠⁠https:/...

Have you been told to "just relax" or "have a glass of wine?". Yup, that's not helpful - and we talk about why (and more) in this episode about the harmful myths surrounding genito-pelvic pain disorders like GPPPD / vaginismus. From misguided counsel by well-meaning loved ones to uninformed guidance from professionals, we address the damaging advice commonly encountered. Le...

In this episode, we discuss: Common terms used in pelvic and sexual pain treatment (demystifying medical jargon!) Definitions and explanations of terms like dyspareunia, vaginismus, GPPPD, vestibulodynia, vulvodynia, atrophy, dystrophy, neuralgia, neuropathic pain, and nociceptive pain SHOWNOTES: ⁠⁠https://www.thesensatespace.com/POD6 FREE GUIDE FOR PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS: ⁠⁠https://thesensatespace...

Feeling stuck with your progress? Wondering what your option for pelvic pain treatment support might be? In this episode we discuss: The importance of a team approach in treating pelvic and sexual pain conditions (like GPPPD/vaginismus, endometriosis). Three main points to consider when building your treatment team: trial and error, changing treatment needs over time, and co-occurring conditions....

This episodes explores the potential of extended exhale breathing, a simple technique used for reducing tension, relaxing your body, and promoting overall well-being. Whether you're seeking stress relief, managing tight muscles, or simply looking for a daily boost, this method can be a helpful tool. I talk about the mechanics of extended exhaling, its impact on nervous system regulation, and i...

In this episode, we discuss navigating informed consent using a simple yet effective tool: the B.R.A.I.N. acronym. Whether you're faced with healthcare decisions for yourself or a loved one, understanding the Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, and the option of doing Nothing can help you to make confident and informed choices. This episode was developed to support people with sexual pai...

In this episode, we're discussing Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder (GPPPD), a female sexual dysfunction condition. GPPPD combines dyspareunia and vaginismus, affecting around 14-34% of pre-menopausal women. We'll discuss various symptoms, including pain during intercourse, fear of pain, and the emotional impacts. This condition varies from person to person. For more on managing GPPP...

This show is dedicated to chronic intimate pain conditions and the role of psychology, including nurturing wellbeing and connection, feeling safe and working with the nervous system, and building a treatment team. We’ll talk about the psychological experiences and symptoms of pelvic and sexual pain conditions (like GPPPD/Vaginismus, vulvodynia, dyspareunia, and endometriosis) and link these with i...