Expert Painful Intercourse Physical Therapy in Bethesda, MD

Patient working with a provider at a pelvic floor physical therapy clinic in McLean

You deserve to feel comfortable, confident, and pain-free in your own body. At ITR Physical Therapy in Bethesda, MD, our specialized pelvic floor therapists provide one-on-one care for painful intercourse and a full range of pelvic health conditions — so you can get back to living fully.

 

Pain During Intimacy Isn't Something to Just Live With

Painful intercourse can leave you feeling isolated, dismissed, and unsure where to turn. If you’ve been told “it’s normal” or seen providers who couldn’t help, you are not alone — and you are not without options.

You’ve Tried to Push Through

Pain during sex has started affecting your relationship, your confidence, and your sense of self — and ignoring it isn’t working.

You’ve Been Dismissed

You’ve seen doctors, received inconclusive answers, and left appointments feeling unheard and no closer to relief.

You Don’t Know Where to Turn

Without a clear diagnosis or roadmap, the pain feels permanent — but specialized pelvic floor physical therapy near me can change that.

Why Bethesda Chooses ITR for Pelvic Physical Therapy

Since 2001, ITR Physical Therapy has been the gold standard for pelvic health care in the DMV area. We take a holistic, person-centered approach — every session is one-on-one, fully individualized, and rooted in the belief that you deserve to feel whole again. Our therapists don’t just treat symptoms; they help you understand your body and reclaim your life.

  • Exclusive focus on pelvic health — every therapist is extensively trained in pelvic floor dysfunction, including painful intercourse and dyspareunia
  • One-on-one, hour-long sessions tailored to your individual needs — no rushing, no shared appointments
  • Free 15-minute Discovery Phone Call so you can ask questions and feel confident before your first visit
Patient receiving one-on-one therapeutic guidance at a physical therapy clinic in Bethesda

Your Path to Relief from Painful Intercourse in Bethesda

Step 1 — Schedule Your Free Discovery Call

Reach out and speak with our team at no cost. Tell us what you’re experiencing, ask your questions, and find out if ITR Physical Therapy is the right fit for you.

Step 2 — Receive Your Personalized Treatment Plan

Your dedicated pelvic floor therapist conducts a thorough one-on-one evaluation and builds a care plan tailored specifically to your body, your history, and your goals.

Step 3 — Reclaim Comfort and Confidence

With expert hands-on care, therapeutic exercise, and compassionate guidance, you’ll rebuild function, reduce pain, and feel like yourself again.

Pelvic Health Conditions We Treat in Bethesda, MD

Painful intercourse — also called dyspareunia or vaginismus — is one of many pelvic health conditions our specialized therapists address every day. Using manual therapy, myofascial release, pelvic floor internal techniques, dry needling, and breathwork, we treat the root cause of your pain, not just the symptoms.

  • Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia / Vaginismus) — specialized pelvic floor therapy to reduce pain, restore comfort, and address the underlying muscular and fascial causes
  • Pelvic Pain & Endometriosis Pain Support — holistic, hands-on care for chronic pelvic pain including vulvodynia, coccydynia, and endometriosis-related discomfort
  • Pregnancy, Postpartum & Prolapse — expert support across the full continuum of women’s pelvic health, from prenatal care and C-section recovery to pelvic organ prolapse and diastasis recti
Patient consulting with a pelvic floor physical therapist at a specialized clinic in Bethesda

5-Star Pelvic Health Care in Bethesda, MD

5.0 stars across 90 Google reviews

“I received thoughtful, informed, and comprehensive care, including education, homework between sessions, and a creative plan to manage my mixed symptoms. Appointments run on time, therapists are highly trained, and the office is clean, well organized, and comfortable. I highly recommend this practice!”

— Liz G.

“I’ve been coming here for post-surgery PT, and I always feel a noticeable improvement in my pain following my appointment. Experienced, competent, and most importantly, compassionate and kind — this all makes for a very safe and comforting atmosphere!”

— Valerie Amato

“Could not recommend ITR enough!! Working with Lauren was fantastic — my pain diminished so much and I’ve learned things that I’ll take with me forever. I feel so much better and I’m so thankful for this experience.”

— Callie Colvin

Meet Our Bethesda Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Team

Specialized, compassionate care from expert pelvic health PTs

Jennifer L. Chu, MS, PT, WCS

Owner and Board Certified Women’s Health Specialist. National speaker and clinical researcher with expertise in pelvic floor dysfunction, mind-body health coaching, and functional nutrition. Founded ITR in 2001 to provide individualized, quality manual care.

Dr. Ann is a Board Certified Women’s Health Specialist (WCS) with 20 years of clinical experience.

Ann Nwabuebo, PT, DPT, WCS

Board Certified Women’s Health Specialist with 20 years of clinical experience specializing in pelvic floor therapy, chronic pain management, and LGBTQIA+ health. Expert in myofascial release, visceral manipulation, and craniosacral therapy.

Alicia Keef

Alicia Keefe, PT, DPT, NCS

Neurologic Certified Specialist focusing on nerve-related postpartum pain, hypermobility, GI dysfunction, and return to sport.

Terri Lannigan, PT, DPT, OCS

Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist with focused expertise in pelvic floor conditions, low back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and hip conditions for male and female patients.

Lauren Starace, PT, MSPT, PYT-c, RYT-200

Physical Therapist and Yoga Therapist specializing in pelvic health for women and men of all ages. Trained in visceral mobilization through the Barral Institute and muscle energy techniques for the spine.

Megan E. Hughes, PT, DPT

Licensed physical therapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in core rehabilitation, childbirth preparation, postpartum recovery, CranioSacral Therapy, and visceral mobility.

Visit Us in Bethesda, MD

We’re just 4 minutes from Bethesda Row, conveniently located near Wildwood Shopping Center and Blair Park Shopping Center. From Bethesda Row, head west on Elm St, turn right onto Arlington Rd, continue onto Old Georgetown Rd, then turn right onto Del Ray Ave — you’ll find us at Suite 508.

Email Contact via phone for scheduling

Phone (301) 770-7060

Hours: Monday: 7 AM–4 PM Tuesday–Friday: 7 AM–3 PM Saturday–Sunday: Closed

requently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your first visit to ITR Physical Therapy in Bethesda.

What is pelvic floor physical therapy, and can it really help with painful intercourse?

Yes — pelvic floor physical therapy is one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments for painful intercourse (dyspareunia) and related conditions. Your therapist will use hands-on manual therapy, myofascial release, pelvic floor internal techniques, and therapeutic exercise to address the muscular, fascial, and neurological causes of your pain. Many patients experience meaningful relief within a few sessions. 

What should I expect at my first appointment at ITR Physical Therapy?

Your first session is a comprehensive one-on-one evaluation with your dedicated therapist. You’ll discuss your history, symptoms, and goals in a private, supportive environment. Your therapist will then conduct a thorough assessment and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. Sessions are one hour long, and you’ll never be rushed or shared with other patients.

Ready to Find Relief?

Schedule your consultation today and experience the ITR difference.