At Femina Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating these conditions that are all too often misunderstood or dismissed as “normal” by the medical community, including pain during sex, endometriosis, incontinence, bladder pain and other pelvic floor issues.
What sets us apart from other physical therapy offices is the model of care we’ve developed that allows our patients with chronic conditions to reach their goals. Our services are one-on-one with licensed physical therapists for 55-120 minutes. No unlicensed staff are used for treatments as we feel strongly that patients deserve physical therapy done by physical therapists, and that is the only way they’ll achieve their optimal outcomes.
We treat vaginismus, overactive pelvic floor, painful intercourse, vulvodynia, vulvar vestibulitis, vestibulodynia, dyspareunia, interstitial cystitis, and more
Far too often women have been told by doctors and even some sex therapists that the concerns and physical problems they have are normal. In fact, they are common. Peeing on yourself, having painful intercourse, having to go to the bathroom 10+ times per day and many other symptoms that women experience throughout their lives are far from normal. I want women to know that their problems are real and happen to many other women, but should not be normalized. Common ≠ Normal.
Since graduating from Duke University, I have always had a passion for treating my female patients throughout the lifespan. I want to reach as many women as possible and empower them with the tools and knowledge so that they can be their 100% best during pregnancy, postpartum, when trying to conceive, gaining and maintaining a healthy sex life and take care of the many symptoms they have that are TREATABLE!
Our fully licensed staff is experienced, compassionate, and highly trained in pelvic floor therapy. Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, issues with various pelvic organs, and primary vaginismus can all interfere with normally pleasurable sexual intercourse, and specialized pelvic sex therapy by a pelvic floor physical therapist can do wonders for not only your sexual wellbeing, but your overall health and enjoyment of life.
Thank you for stopping by, Heather Jeffcoat, DPT
AsFeatured In:
Get The Book
Haga clic aquí para la versión españolaSex Without Pain: A Self-Treatment Guide To The Sex Life You Deserve was written by Heather Jeffcoat, DPT, a physical therapist with countless successes in treating pain of this type. Women with vaginismus, overactive pelvic floor, painful intercourse, vulvodynia, vulvar vestibulitis, vestibulodynia, dyspareunia, interstitial cystitis have all benefited from her unique program. Heather uses her orthopedic background to approach treatment of these muscles like they are....muscles! She utilizes a self-treatment tool called a dilator to provide massage and other muscle relaxation and stretching techniques in a gentle fashion to return a women's muscles back to a resting, rather than guarded, state.
• To order "Sex Without Pain" in paperback from Amazon for $24.99, click here.
• To order an electronic read-only non-printable PDF copy of the book for instant download at $19.99, use the button below:
• To schedule an appointment at one of the Femina PT offices, click here.
• For a list of other trusted health care providers, click here.
What Our Patients Have to Say
Prev
Next
Testimonial by Y.L. (mom of 2)
After having my second baby via C-section I searched for months to try to find help for my lower back pain and separated abdominal muscles. I finally came across Heather Jeffcoat via a mommy blog. I reached out to her via email and set my first appointment. My first appointment went amazing … she listened to what my symptoms, check my separation and explained to me in detail what the next steps would be. Not only did my abdominal separation go from 3 to about 1 -1/2 but my back has pain has significantly reduced. I’m personally recommending all my mommy friends to Heather!
Y.L. (mom of 2)
Testimonial by A.W., age 32
I wanted to let you know that my pelvic floor held strong and gave me no trouble whatsoever in my trail race this morning (12 miles)! In a way, I felt like I ran better than ever because my core feels so rock solid from all the exercises you have me doing. That was especially valuable on the technical downhill - I just flew down the trail because I had confidence in my balance and form. Thank you for helping me get back to doing what I love.
-- A.W., age 32
(completed Post-partum Renewal Program using the InTone biofeedback/stim unit)
Testimonial by S.P., Age 26
I would like to start off by thanking Heather Jeffcoat for educating me and curing me of Vaginismus. I had been married for almost three years before I was referred to Heather. I never knew about Vaginismus until almost three years into my marriage. I knew something was wrong when I went on my honeymoon and came back a Virgin. I had always imagined how magical my first night would be but boy was I wrong.
No one could tell me why I was having pain during sex--sharp pain, not just uncomfortable, pain. I was referred to Heather Jeffcoat after researching several different options. I had seen a specialist who told me physical therapy would not help and my only option was surgery. I really didn't want to go that route, so when we got a referral, I decided to try it--it can't hurt, I thought. I am so glad I did. She diagnosed the problem right away, which was a relief in itself.
To know why I was having pain eased my mind immensely. And to hear that she could fix it without surgery was another relief. She said she could fix the problem in 6 weeks. I think it was actually 4 for me. She was very methodical, and treated me as an intelligent human being capable of participating in my own recovery. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone. She did not try to prolong my session numbers, she worked hard to accommodate my schedule (and the fact that I had to bring a baby to sessions), and she was completely honest the entire time. It is so hard to find someone with these characteristics, much less a professional who is so good at what she does. She has my highest respect.
-- R.H.
Testimonial by Lauren B.
Femina PT (née Fusion Wellness & Physical Therapy) has been such an answer to prayer, i'm so glad I found them! I've been struggling with vaginismus my whole life, but didn't have a name for it until about 6 or 7 months ago. Even once I did have a name for it though, I didn't know where to begin in getting help. My OB/GYN had me get a set of dilators, but I couldn't even insert the smallest one by myself. Most times I tried I just ended up frustrated and in tears. I felt really alone, like I was broken and didn't have the energy to keep trying. When I got engaged a few months ago though, I realized I needed to get answers so i wasn't dreading my honeymoon.
I had tried Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy before (with another PT) and I had a really bad (painful) experience. A friend of mine and fellow patient, told me about Heather, Laureen and Femina PT (née Fusion Wellness & Physical Therapy) and I decided to try again. I am so happy I did! Femina PT have, literally, changed my life. I was able to do again things I couldn't do for over 10 years!! Their bedside manners are impeccable, their knowledge and understanding make me feel comfortable to recommend this place to anyone in pain. Specially if you have Endometriosis. 100% recommended!!
Our site uses cookies to implement some of its features. We encourage you to visit our Terms of Use page for more information.
Like what you are seeing so far? Register for our mailing list and receive periodic updates via email, a 15% discount code for the "Sex Without Pain" ebook, and instant access to our Downloads area!
Our site uses cookies to implement some of its features. We encourage you to visit our Terms of Use page for more information.
Like what you are seeing so far? Register for our mailing list and receive periodic updates via email, a 15% discount code for the "Sex Without Pain" ebook, and instant access to our Downloads area!
At Femina Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating these conditions that are all too often misunderstood or dismissed as “normal” by the medical community, including pain during sex, endometriosis, incontinence, bladder pain and other pelvic floor issues.
What sets us apart from other physical therapy offices is the model of care we’ve developed that allows our patients with chronic conditions to reach their goals. Our services are one-on-one with licensed physical therapists for 55-120 minutes. No unlicensed staff are used for treatments as we feel strongly that patients deserve physical therapy done by physical therapists, and that is the only way they’ll achieve their optimal outcomes.
We treat vaginismus, overactive pelvic floor, painful intercourse, vulvodynia, vulvar vestibulitis, vestibulodynia, dyspareunia, interstitial cystitis, and more
Far too often women have been told by doctors and even some sex therapists that the concerns and physical problems they have are normal. In fact, they are common. Peeing on yourself, having painful intercourse, having to go to the bathroom 10+ times per day and many other symptoms that women experience throughout their lives are far from normal. I want women to know that their problems are real and happen to many other women, but should not be normalized. Common ≠ Normal.
Since graduating from Duke University, I have always had a passion for treating my female patients throughout the lifespan. I want to reach as many women as possible and empower them with the tools and knowledge so that they can be their 100% best during pregnancy, postpartum, when trying to conceive, gaining and maintaining a healthy sex life and take care of the many symptoms they have that are TREATABLE!
Our fully licensed staff is experienced, compassionate, and highly trained in pelvic floor therapy. Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, issues with various pelvic organs, and primary vaginismus can all interfere with normally pleasurable sexual intercourse, and specialized pelvic sex therapy by a pelvic floor physical therapist can do wonders for not only your sexual wellbeing, but your overall health and enjoyment of life.
Thank you for stopping by, Heather Jeffcoat, DPT
AsFeatured In:
Get The Book
Haga clic aquí para la versión españolaSex Without Pain: A Self-Treatment Guide To The Sex Life You Deserve was written by Heather Jeffcoat, DPT, a physical therapist with countless successes in treating pain of this type. Women with vaginismus, overactive pelvic floor, painful intercourse, vulvodynia, vulvar vestibulitis, vestibulodynia, dyspareunia, interstitial cystitis have all benefited from her unique program. Heather uses her orthopedic background to approach treatment of these muscles like they are....muscles! She utilizes a self-treatment tool called a dilator to provide massage and other muscle relaxation and stretching techniques in a gentle fashion to return a women's muscles back to a resting, rather than guarded, state.
• To order "Sex Without Pain" in paperback from Amazon for $24.99, click here.
• To order an electronic read-only non-printable PDF copy of the book for instant download at $19.99, use the button below:
• To schedule an appointment at one of the Femina PT offices, click here.
• For a list of other trusted health care providers, click here.
What Our Patients Have to Say
Prev
Next
Testimonial by Y.L. (mom of 2)
After having my second baby via C-section I searched for months to try to find help for my lower back pain and separated abdominal muscles. I finally came across Heather Jeffcoat via a mommy blog. I reached out to her via email and set my first appointment. My first appointment went amazing … she listened to what my symptoms, check my separation and explained to me in detail what the next steps would be. Not only did my abdominal separation go from 3 to about 1 -1/2 but my back has pain has significantly reduced. I’m personally recommending all my mommy friends to Heather!
Y.L. (mom of 2)
Testimonial by A.W., age 32
I wanted to let you know that my pelvic floor held strong and gave me no trouble whatsoever in my trail race this morning (12 miles)! In a way, I felt like I ran better than ever because my core feels so rock solid from all the exercises you have me doing. That was especially valuable on the technical downhill - I just flew down the trail because I had confidence in my balance and form. Thank you for helping me get back to doing what I love.
-- A.W., age 32
(completed Post-partum Renewal Program using the InTone biofeedback/stim unit)
Testimonial by S.P., Age 26
I would like to start off by thanking Heather Jeffcoat for educating me and curing me of Vaginismus. I had been married for almost three years before I was referred to Heather. I never knew about Vaginismus until almost three years into my marriage. I knew something was wrong when I went on my honeymoon and came back a Virgin. I had always imagined how magical my first night would be but boy was I wrong.
No one could tell me why I was having pain during sex--sharp pain, not just uncomfortable, pain. I was referred to Heather Jeffcoat after researching several different options. I had seen a specialist who told me physical therapy would not help and my only option was surgery. I really didn't want to go that route, so when we got a referral, I decided to try it--it can't hurt, I thought. I am so glad I did. She diagnosed the problem right away, which was a relief in itself.
To know why I was having pain eased my mind immensely. And to hear that she could fix it without surgery was another relief. She said she could fix the problem in 6 weeks. I think it was actually 4 for me. She was very methodical, and treated me as an intelligent human being capable of participating in my own recovery. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone. She did not try to prolong my session numbers, she worked hard to accommodate my schedule (and the fact that I had to bring a baby to sessions), and she was completely honest the entire time. It is so hard to find someone with these characteristics, much less a professional who is so good at what she does. She has my highest respect.
-- R.H.
Testimonial by Lauren B.
Femina PT (née Fusion Wellness & Physical Therapy) has been such an answer to prayer, i'm so glad I found them! I've been struggling with vaginismus my whole life, but didn't have a name for it until about 6 or 7 months ago. Even once I did have a name for it though, I didn't know where to begin in getting help. My OB/GYN had me get a set of dilators, but I couldn't even insert the smallest one by myself. Most times I tried I just ended up frustrated and in tears. I felt really alone, like I was broken and didn't have the energy to keep trying. When I got engaged a few months ago though, I realized I needed to get answers so i wasn't dreading my honeymoon.
I had tried Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy before (with another PT) and I had a really bad (painful) experience. A friend of mine and fellow patient, told me about Heather, Laureen and Femina PT (née Fusion Wellness & Physical Therapy) and I decided to try again. I am so happy I did! Femina PT have, literally, changed my life. I was able to do again things I couldn't do for over 10 years!! Their bedside manners are impeccable, their knowledge and understanding make me feel comfortable to recommend this place to anyone in pain. Specially if you have Endometriosis. 100% recommended!!
Our site uses cookies to implement some of its features. We encourage you to visit our Terms of Use page for more information.
Like what you are seeing so far? Register for our mailing list and receive periodic updates via email, a 15% discount code for the "Sex Without Pain" ebook, and instant access to our Downloads area!
Our site uses cookies to implement some of its features. We encourage you to visit our Terms of Use page for more information.
Like what you are seeing so far? Register for our mailing list and receive periodic updates via email, a 15% discount code for the "Sex Without Pain" ebook, and instant access to our Downloads area!
What is Edema, and what causes swelling during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, extra water and salt retention is one of the most common complaints and symptoms that occur during pregnancy– this is called edema. Edema happens as a result of a few different changes that occur in pregnancy: the growth of the baby as they put greater pressure on one of the major blood vessels of the body called the vena cava which is located in the abdomen; hormonal changes that happen during pregnancy such as changes in progesterone, estrogen HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), and prolactin which can cause increased swelling in the body; increased blood volume (by up to 50% more in pregnancy). Additionally, varicose veins may occur in up to 60% of females, with an increased risk depending on increased age and increased number of pregnancies.1 Edema can cause stiffness in joints, heaviness, and a sensation of warmth in the area that is swollen.
Myofascial Release Therapy to Alleviate Chronic Pain
Myofascial restrictions can be caused by postural dysfunction, trauma, inflammatory conditions and/or surgeries. When these restrictions occur, they can produce tensile pressures up to 2,000 pounds per square inch on sensitive structure and lead to chronic pain. It essentially creates a ‘straight-jacket’ of pain around the tissue and can keep you in a cycle of pain.
Are You Suffering From Chronic Overlapping Pelvic Pain Conditions? We Can Help!
Part 1: Endometriosis and Vulvodynia
Chronic pelvic pain, sometimes abbreviated to “CPP”, is defined as “pain in the abdomen or pelvis for at least 14 days per month and severe enough to cause functional limitations” by a recent literature review of chronic pelvic pain5. The cause of chronic pelvic pain is often multifactorial and can be the result of conditions such as:
At Femina Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating these conditions that are all too often misunderstood or dismissed as “normal” by the medical community, including pain during sex, endometriosis, incontinence, bladder pain and other pelvic floor issues.
What sets us apart from other physical therapy offices is the model of care we’ve developed that allows our patients with chronic conditions to reach their goals. Our services are one-on-one with licensed physical therapists for 55-120 minutes. No unlicensed staff are used for treatments as we feel strongly that patients deserve physical therapy done by physical therapists, and that is the only way they’ll achieve their optimal outcomes.
We treat vaginismus, overactive pelvic floor, painful intercourse, vulvodynia, vulvar vestibulitis, vestibulodynia, dyspareunia, interstitial cystitis, and more
Far too often women have been told by doctors and even some sex therapists that the concerns and physical problems they have are normal. In fact, they are common. Peeing on yourself, having painful intercourse, having to go to the bathroom 10+ times per day and many other symptoms that women experience throughout their lives are far from normal. I want women to know that their problems are real and happen to many other women, but should not be normalized. Common ≠ Normal.
Since graduating from Duke University, I have always had a passion for treating my female patients throughout the lifespan. I want to reach as many women as possible and empower them with the tools and knowledge so that they can be their 100% best during pregnancy, postpartum, when trying to conceive, gaining and maintaining a healthy sex life and take care of the many symptoms they have that are TREATABLE!
Our fully licensed staff is experienced, compassionate, and highly trained in pelvic floor therapy. Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, issues with various pelvic organs, and primary vaginismus can all interfere with normally pleasurable sexual intercourse, and specialized pelvic sex therapy by a pelvic floor physical therapist can do wonders for not only your sexual wellbeing, but your overall health and enjoyment of life.
Thank you for stopping by, Heather Jeffcoat, DPT
AsFeatured In:
Get The Book
Haga clic aquí para la versión españolaSex Without Pain: A Self-Treatment Guide To The Sex Life You Deserve was written by Heather Jeffcoat, DPT, a physical therapist with countless successes in treating pain of this type. Women with vaginismus, overactive pelvic floor, painful intercourse, vulvodynia, vulvar vestibulitis, vestibulodynia, dyspareunia, interstitial cystitis have all benefited from her unique program. Heather uses her orthopedic background to approach treatment of these muscles like they are....muscles! She utilizes a self-treatment tool called a dilator to provide massage and other muscle relaxation and stretching techniques in a gentle fashion to return a women's muscles back to a resting, rather than guarded, state.
• To order "Sex Without Pain" in paperback from Amazon for $24.99, click here.
• To order an electronic read-only non-printable PDF copy of the book for instant download at $19.99, use the button below:
• To schedule an appointment at one of the Femina PT offices, click here.
• For a list of other trusted health care providers, click here.
What Our Patients Have to Say
Prev
Next
Testimonial by Y.L. (mom of 2)
After having my second baby via C-section I searched for months to try to find help for my lower back pain and separated abdominal muscles. I finally came across Heather Jeffcoat via a mommy blog. I reached out to her via email and set my first appointment. My first appointment went amazing … she listened to what my symptoms, check my separation and explained to me in detail what the next steps would be. Not only did my abdominal separation go from 3 to about 1 -1/2 but my back has pain has significantly reduced. I’m personally recommending all my mommy friends to Heather!
Y.L. (mom of 2)
Testimonial by A.W., age 32
I wanted to let you know that my pelvic floor held strong and gave me no trouble whatsoever in my trail race this morning (12 miles)! In a way, I felt like I ran better than ever because my core feels so rock solid from all the exercises you have me doing. That was especially valuable on the technical downhill - I just flew down the trail because I had confidence in my balance and form. Thank you for helping me get back to doing what I love.
-- A.W., age 32
(completed Post-partum Renewal Program using the InTone biofeedback/stim unit)
Testimonial by S.P., Age 26
I would like to start off by thanking Heather Jeffcoat for educating me and curing me of Vaginismus. I had been married for almost three years before I was referred to Heather. I never knew about Vaginismus until almost three years into my marriage. I knew something was wrong when I went on my honeymoon and came back a Virgin. I had always imagined how magical my first night would be but boy was I wrong.
No one could tell me why I was having pain during sex--sharp pain, not just uncomfortable, pain. I was referred to Heather Jeffcoat after researching several different options. I had seen a specialist who told me physical therapy would not help and my only option was surgery. I really didn't want to go that route, so when we got a referral, I decided to try it--it can't hurt, I thought. I am so glad I did. She diagnosed the problem right away, which was a relief in itself.
To know why I was having pain eased my mind immensely. And to hear that she could fix it without surgery was another relief. She said she could fix the problem in 6 weeks. I think it was actually 4 for me. She was very methodical, and treated me as an intelligent human being capable of participating in my own recovery. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone. She did not try to prolong my session numbers, she worked hard to accommodate my schedule (and the fact that I had to bring a baby to sessions), and she was completely honest the entire time. It is so hard to find someone with these characteristics, much less a professional who is so good at what she does. She has my highest respect.
-- R.H.
Testimonial by Lauren B.
Femina PT (née Fusion Wellness & Physical Therapy) has been such an answer to prayer, i'm so glad I found them! I've been struggling with vaginismus my whole life, but didn't have a name for it until about 6 or 7 months ago. Even once I did have a name for it though, I didn't know where to begin in getting help. My OB/GYN had me get a set of dilators, but I couldn't even insert the smallest one by myself. Most times I tried I just ended up frustrated and in tears. I felt really alone, like I was broken and didn't have the energy to keep trying. When I got engaged a few months ago though, I realized I needed to get answers so i wasn't dreading my honeymoon.
I had tried Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy before (with another PT) and I had a really bad (painful) experience. A friend of mine and fellow patient, told me about Heather, Laureen and Femina PT (née Fusion Wellness & Physical Therapy) and I decided to try again. I am so happy I did! Femina PT have, literally, changed my life. I was able to do again things I couldn't do for over 10 years!! Their bedside manners are impeccable, their knowledge and understanding make me feel comfortable to recommend this place to anyone in pain. Specially if you have Endometriosis. 100% recommended!!
Our site uses cookies to implement some of its features. We encourage you to visit our Terms of Use page for more information.
Like what you are seeing so far? Register for our mailing list and receive periodic updates via email, a 15% discount code for the "Sex Without Pain" ebook, and instant access to our Downloads area!
Our site uses cookies to implement some of its features. We encourage you to visit our Terms of Use page for more information.
Like what you are seeing so far? Register for our mailing list and receive periodic updates via email, a 15% discount code for the "Sex Without Pain" ebook, and instant access to our Downloads area!
Heather's unique physical therapy program literally changed my life! After years of struggling with vaginismus, a condition that made it impossible for me to have intercourse and very difficult to use tampons without pain, a gynecologist referred me to Heather. I was nervous for my first appointment, but Heather's professional and friendly demeanor put me at ease. She did a great job explaining each technique she was using to help my muscles relax. Heather uses a combination of internal and external stretches and exercises to relax the pelvic floor and build muscle strength. Her specially developed home program helped me quickly recover from an issue that seemed insurmountable before meeting Heather. She was optimistic about my progress and incredibly encouraging. Less than 6 months after my first session, I was able to have pain-free sex for the first time in my life! If you are suffering from vaginismus or any other pelvic floor issues, I highly recommend making an appointment with Heather and reading her book!
-- Amanda W., 2/15/16 via Yelp!
Testimonial by S.H., age 24
I just wanted to thank you for everything you've done for me for the past 19 months. I literally could not have reached my goals without you and your practice. You gave me the courage to keep moving forth with my treatment no matter how afraid and anxious I was. You were always there to answer questions and made this whole process so much easier than I expected it to be.
It's because of you that my marriage is on the right track, that I can get pregnant and that this part of my life is finally over. I really feel that Fusion Wellness is a team of people you can call family and are there to root for you and cheer you on until you reach your goals. There is nothing better than knowing I accomplished this with you guys by my side and as calmly and patiently as I needed. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for always being there and helping me reach my goals.
S.H., age 24
Testimonial by Rosanna R., age 35
Heather has affected my life in the MOST POSITIVE way and I am forever grateful. My husband refers to her as the "sex doctor" so you can only imagine how happy he is with my therapy outcome.
After the birth of my son I suffered from "Vaginismus", however, at the time I just thought I was broken. My "broken vagina" affected me physically but it was an emotional struggle as well. Many women in my life also suffered with pain from sex after their babies were born so I knew I wasn't alone. They told me they "just got used to it" but I couldn't see myself living that way.
Sex wasn't just painful, it was literally impossible - IT DIDNT FIT!
I was hopeful but frankly skeptical when the doctor treating me for Interstitial Cystitis recommended that I go to Heather for physical therapy. Medication and diet helped control my IC symptoms, but I had never heard of physical therapy being used to treat IC. The education and treatment I received from Heather was a revelation. She explained that the pain I experienced with IC had helped create a cycle of muscle guarding which affected the entire pelvic area. I had no idea of the amount of tension being held there. No wonder my husband and I had not been able to have sexual intercourse for years!
As someone who suffered the debilitating physical and emotional effects of vaginismus (as well as a complicated history of back injuries) for more than 15 years, I thought a "normal" life was just a fantasy. Then I found Heather.
A personal journey and testimonial from one of my patients:
My husband and I were married for 5 years before we were able to have intercourse due to my vaginismus. There was nothing traumatic in my past but for some reason, even though I wanted sex, I mentally avoided "that area" of my body and didn't even admit to myself that there was a problem for a long time, even though I was never able to put tampons in. Once I finally opened my eyes up to the fact that I had a problem, I had a surgery that was supposed to fix the issue.
Our site uses cookies to implement some of its features. We encourage you to visit our Terms of Use page for more information.
Like what you are seeing so far? Register for our mailing list and receive periodic updates via email, a 15% discount code for the "Sex Without Pain" ebook, and instant access to our Downloads area!