Let's talk about it, between women: pain, tone and sexual health

If you're reading these lines, it may be because you too are experiencing or have experienced discomfort during sexual relations. Or maybe you're wondering about your body, your intimate health, or that little "feeling" of not being as toned as you used to be. And you know what? You're not alone. I'm 30 years old, and all around me - in my friends, my clients, even in my social networks - these conversations are finally starting to take hold. And it's about time.

Part 1: Penetrative pain - It's not "all in your head"!

For too long, women have been led to believe that pain on penetration is "normal". That it was "all in our heads", or that we weren't aroused enough. But the reality is that thousands of women experience this pain, also known as dyspareunia, and they need solutions, not judgments.

Among the causes: a lack of natural lubrication, muscular tension, vaginal dryness (even in young women!), or conditions like vaginismus or endometriosis. The good news? There are practical tools you can use to regain comfort... and, above all, pleasure.

👉 Lubricants are our best allies. We're not talking about sticky products from another era, but water-based lubricants that are gentle, natural and respectful of our vaginal flora.

👉 Vaginal dilators are also an extraordinary option. No, they're not a "toy", but rather a medical tool designed to gently re-educate vaginal muscles, help tame pain-free penetration, and regain power over your body at your own pace.

Talking to a healthcare professional, such as a pelvic floor physiotherapist, can also make all the difference. It's time to listen to and honor yourself.

Part 2: "Je me sens lousse" - When the pelvic floor needs a little love

It's a phrase I often hear, even from women who've never had children: "I feel softer than before." This feeling of loss of tone can affect sexual pleasure, self-confidence, and even cause bladder weakness. But once again: it's common and, above all, it can be worked on!

💪 The benefits of a strong pelvic floor

A healthy pelvic floor is much more than a question of vaginal tone. It's an essential foundation for daily comfort, health and pleasure. Here's why strengthening your pelvic floor is a great idea:

1. Improved sensations during intercourse

A toned pelvic floor increases vaginal sensitivity, enhances natural lubrication and intensifies orgasms.

2. Better muscle control during intercourse

You gain control and confidence, and can even surprise your partner with voluntary contractions during penetration!

3. Prevention and reduction of bladder weakness

One of the best-known benefits: say goodbye to those little "accidents" when you laugh, jump or sneeze.

4. Support for internal organs

A strong pelvic floor helps support the bladder, uterus and rectum, preventing prolapse.

5. Faster post-partum recovery

After childbirth, a toned pelvic floor promotes better recovery, reduces pain and helps restore tone more quickly.

6. Improved posture and body stability

These muscles play a key role in pelvic stability and overall posture - an often overlooked ally!

7. Increased self-confidence

When you feel good about your body, you glow. And regaining control of this intimate area can have a direct effect on your self-esteem and sex life.

👉 Kegel exercises are a classic, but for good reason. Tightening and loosening your pelvic floor muscles for a few minutes a day can restore a lot of firmness... as long as you do them right, and I'll explain how below. (Little tip: if you're not sure you're doing them right, an assessment with a specialized physio can really clear things up).

💪 How to do Kegel exercises:

1. Identify the right muscle: On your next urination, try to stop the stream of urine right in the middle. That's the muscle you're contracting!

2. Contract this muscle for 5 seconds.

3. Release for 5 seconds.

4. Repeat 10 times, ideally 3 times a day.

5. Do them sitting, lying down or even standing, without contracting your buttocks or abdominals.

Tip: Breathe normally. Don't block your breath.

👉 Kegel balls are a great tool to incorporate into your routine. They help "wake up" your muscles and tone them. It's a bit like a discreet workout... but for your vagina!

👉 And for special occasions, or as a temporary boost, there are also products like Shunga'sHold Me Tight cream. It's a firming cream based on natural ingredients that can temporarily tighten vaginal walls, as well as increasing sensitivity. It's an invaluable little help in rediscovering more intense sensations and shared pleasure.

In conclusion: Listen to your body, it knows what it wants!

Our sexual health is an integral part of our overall well-being. And it's time to give it the attention and respect it deserves. Whether we're looking for solutions to pain or rediscovering our intimate tone, the most important thing is to feel good, strong and connected to ourselves.

Let's talk to each other. Let's share our stories. And above all, let's not be afraid to ask for help or try out tools. Because pleasure is also about knowing and caring for our own bodies. 💕