Emails- Discussion Encouraged!

I have been getting a lot of emails lately, addressing a wide-range of topics. There are some that I'm very eager to talk about and to hear what other thoughts people might have.

First of all, I have had a lot of encouraging emails lately from women offering hope. And I wish I could send those right along to those women who write from a very dark and frightened place. It's difficult to keep in mind that there are many women out there who have gotten completely better with certain treatments. We just don't hear from them as much because now that they're cured, they don't have to search for answers like some of us continue to do.

I've had a lot of women bring up Dr. Goldstein from The Center for Vulvovaginal Disorders in DC. I have heard information about him, but never looked into contacting him about my own case. But it seems that may be a step I want to take now, especially because I am currently without a specialist directing my path. Here is his website in case you would like more information: http://www.cvvd.org/

I already called his office today, but no answer, and still have not heard back from the message I left. I will try again tomorrow. I am curious to see the next appointment he has available for new patients and if he takes my insurance. I think at this point I really need to go back to a doctor and take a more concrete plan of action. Because while I do feel my hip has been involved in this, I also think my problems are multi-fold and need to be addressed on many fronts.

So I will keep you informed as I learn more about that- has anyone else seen Dr. Goldstein? Comments?

Finally, I've also received several emails discussing intimate relationships with loved ones and the pressure and pain that accompany physical contact. While many too often sexualize vulvar vestibulitis and other vulvovaginal disorders, that doesn't mean that there are difficulties with physical intimacy and sexual relations. These still need to be discussed, and I can see through the emails that many wish they could speak out more about this issue. How do you build a relationship when you feel there's a part of yourself that you can't give? I know a lot of us feel guilty, inadequate, not good enough. This is not healthy for any relationship.

I know a few women have even brought up the topic of fluid sexuality- in this case, beginning to be more drawn to women. With a relationship or intimate friendship with a woman, the playing field if a little different- there's much less guilt and feelings of being "broken," or "sick." When intercourse is removed, it's a lot easier to feel relief. And this might be a confusing topic for those who haven't learned about queer theory or sexuality courses. And I want to get more into it later, but wanted to broach the subject tonight because I know it hasn't been talked about and want others to know that if they have ever thought about it- they're not alone.

I also would love to hear anyone's thoughts or advice about anything in this post. Comment annonymously if you do not feel comfortable, but let's hear what you all have to say.

(On a side note, I'm doing much better as far as my tonsils are conscerned. I am almost back to normal after a long two weeks. It's nice to taste solid food again. Starting up physical therapy next week, as well as the gym and dilators at night.)