63: Vaginismus Isn't in Your Head and Here's Why with Dr. Janelle Frederick

What if sex was supposed to feel good—but your body won't let you get there?

In this episode, Kristen sits down with Dr. Janelle Frederick, a pelvic floor physical therapist known as the Vagina Rehab Doctor, to talk about vaginismus, sexual pain, and how virtual pelvic health treatment is changing lives.

Dr. Frederick shares her journey from working in orthopedics to specializing in sexual dysfunction—and why she left her dream job at a top hospital to build a remote coaching practice focused on patient empowerment. If you've ever wondered how pelvic PT could possibly work over Zoom, this conversation will blow your mind.

What you'll learn in this episode:

• What vaginismus actually is (hint: it's a pelvic floor muscle disorder, not a psychological problem)
• Why early signs like difficulty with tampons or pap smears matter—and shouldn't be ignored
• How religious upbringing, cultural messaging, and even childhood constipation can contribute to vaginismus
• Why "just relax" is terrible advice when your pelvic floor is in overdrive
• The three first steps to take if you think you're dealing with sexual pain or vaginismus
• How Dr. Frederick's virtual model gives patients more agency and often leads to faster healing
• What "Vaj Stretch Labs" are (and why moving your body matters for pelvic floor release)

This episode is for anyone who's been told their pain is "in their head," who's tried treatment that didn't work, or who's just starting to realize that painful sex isn't something you have to live with.

About Dr. Janelle Frederick: Dr. Janelle Frederick is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in treating vaginismus and sexual pain. After completing her pelvic health residency at Loyola in Chicago, she built a thriving remote coaching practice that's helped over 300 people experience pain-free, pleasurable intimacy. Her approach focuses on patient empowerment, self-assessment, and addressing both the physical and mental aspects of healing.

Connect with Dr. Janelle Frederick: Instagram: @vaginarehabdoc

Visit Blueberry Therapy: blueberrytherapy.ca
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