Recovery from Reproductive and Sexual Trauma
Laparoscopy
Cesarean section
Birth tears
Vacuum extraction
Placental retention
Gynecological exams
Boundary rupture
Sexual harassment
Sexual assault
Other surgery
Recovery from Reproductive and Sexual Trauma
If you're here, chances are you've experienced one of the above. And perhaps you've noticed changes in yourself since: increased anger or having less patience; weepiness, grief, or inexplicable sadness; feelings of terror or fear unrelated to your actual day-to-day; feeling spacey, disoriented or confused; chronically tight, numb, or slack muscles; or struggling to feel connected with you body.
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Yep, those are real outcomes from reproductive or gynecological trauma. Even in consensual and necessary surgery, the body experiences protective responses that can leave us with some of the above side effects. I work with your story and your body's experience to re-negotiate and repair boundary ruptures.
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Additionally, we will work together to address and solve physical issues resulting from scar tissue. When the body experiences physical trauma, through surgery or birth tears, for example, it forms scar tissue as a way to repair itself. Scar tissue is a thickening in the fascia that is stickier and denser than the surrounding tissue, reducing the slide and glide necessary for pain-free movement.
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More on Scar Tissue
Your entire body is held together by fascia- from your skin to your bones, from the large muscles groups to the DNA of your cells, fascia surrounds it all. Fascia allows tissues to slide and glide, lending motility to the body.
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When the body experiences physical trauma, through surgery or birth tears, for example, it forms scar tissue as a way to repair itself. Scar tissue is a thickening in the fascia that is stickier and denser than the surrounding tissue, reducing the slide and glide necessary for pain-free movement.
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Un-remediated scar tissue can continue to grow in the body as adhesions, effecting areas distant from the original injury. These adhesions can impinge nerves, reduce blood flow, and reduce mobility of tissue. Unaddressed scar tissue can cause pain or numbness.
When scars are located in the pelvis or abdomen, they can also affect physiological arousal, making intercourse painful or difficult.
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Fortunately, scar tissue can be remediated through castor oil packs, self massage, and fascial manipulation. In cases of high inflammation, we may also address dietary and lifestyle patterns. Scars hold a lot of story, whether consciously or subconsciously. For this reason, I always incorporate Somatic Experiencing trauma tracking skills during scar tissue sessions.