A Physical Therapist’s Honest Take on Pelvic Pain & Vulvovaginal Health

At Momotaro Apotheca, we believe vaginal wellness deserves more than whispered conversations and subpar products. That’s why we’re so excited to sit down with Dr. Jillian Giannini, PT, DPT, founder of LIA Pelvic Health Dand a passionate advocate for pelvic floor physical therapy, who’s helping reframe how we think about vulvovaginal care.

In this Q&A, Jillian shares her personal journey through pelvic pain, the power of integrative care, and why she trusts plant-based vaginal wellness products like ours for both her patients and herself.

 

Meet Jillian Giannini: Physical Therapist & Pelvic Health Advocate

 

Q: Can you share a little about your background and approach to vulvovaginal care?

Hi there! I’m Jillian Giannini, a physical therapist with a passion for pelvic health. I’ve been immersed in this incredible field ever since graduating from PT school, though like many people, I had no idea pelvic health even existed until I was first introduced to it during my training. As it turns out, it was exactly what I needed; I was dealing with my own pelvic health challenges throughout school, and discovering this specialty changed everything for me.

At my practice, LIA Pelvic Health, I work with a wide range of individuals seeking support for bladder, bowel, and sexual health concerns. While I treat a variety of conditions, I have a particular interest in genito-pelvic pain, largely because of my own journey with it.

As a physical therapist I don’t diagnose vulvovaginal disorders or prescribe medication, but I still play a role in their care. So where do I come in with vulvovaginal health? Many people I see come in with experiences of recurring infections, hormonal transitions, and/or pelvic pain (just to name a few) and more often than not, the pelvic floor muscles play a role. For example, someone might finish treatment for an infection, have all negative test results, yet still experience symptoms like urinary urgency, frequency, or discomfort. Surprising as it may sound, this lingering discomfort can be tied to pelvic floor dysfunction and that’s where I come in!

In my practice, I take a whole-body, integrative approach to care. I love collaborating with sexual medicine specialists, gynecologists, urologists, and other healthcare providers to ensure my patients receive comprehensive, compassionate support. 

 

 From Patient to Provider: Why Pelvic Health Matters

Q: Why are you so passionate about pelvic health?

My passion for pelvic health began in two very personal ways. First, I discovered how much I genuinely enjoyed having open, honest conversations with patients about pee, poop, and sex; topics that are often shrouded in shame or embarrassment. These are basic, human functions, yet society often treats them as taboo. I found deep fulfillment in helping people feel empowered and confident in discussing and embracing these vital aspects of their lives.

The second reason is rooted in my own story. I began experiencing pelvic pain in my early 20s, starting with recurring vaginal infections. Over time, I noticed pain with sex and an overwhelming sense of confusion and isolation. I didn’t know where to turn or what was happening to my body. It wasn’t until I was introduced to pelvic health that everything started to make sense. I finally realized: I wasn’t crazy, I wasn’t alone, and there were answers. There was hope. I began working with a sexual medicine specialist and was eventually diagnosed with vestibulodynia. For the first time, I was given a clear path forward and a treatment plan that actually helped.

Unfortunately, vulvovaginal disorders are under-discussed, under-taught, and under-researched. This lack of awareness contributes to medical gaslighting, trauma, and a deep sense of invisibility for those who suffer. My mission is to help drive change by raising awareness, fostering safe spaces, and providing compassionate care for those facing these personal challenges.

 

Read: What exactly is Vestibulodynia?

 

Why I Recommend Momotaro Apotheca to My Patients

Q: What drew you to Momotaro Apotheca’s products?

What drew me to Momotaro Apotheca is their commitment to creating certified organic and cruelty-free products. In a market flooded with vulvovaginal care options that often do more harm than good, it’s refreshing and reassuring to find a brand that prioritizes gentle, effective, plant-based ingredients. I’m happy to collaborate with a company that believes you don’t need harsh chemicals to care for such an important and sensitive part of the body.

 

What Momotaro Apotheca Product Suit You Best? Take The Quiz

Clinical Uses: When and Why I Recommend the Salve, Probiotic & Suppositories

Q: What products do you recommend most often, and for what conditions?

I believe Momotaro Apotheca products can support a variety of vulvovaginal concerns and conditions. The Momotaro Apotheca Salve  can be a wonderful option for patients experiencing vulvovaginal symptoms like dryness and irritation. 

Conditions like vestibulodynia, vulvodynia, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, and genitourinary syndrome of lactation are often multifactorial in nature, contributing to vulvovaginal symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Navigating these challenges can be complex, which is why I strongly encourage seeking care from a collaborative team of providers. Professionals who communicate openly, take a whole-person approach, and are dedicated to walking alongside you in your healing journey.

Looking for a provider? ISSWSH Providers is a helpful resource!

I’m also a big fan of the probiotic and suppository duo. These can be helpful for those dealing with recurrent bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections, something many of my patients are all too familiar with. Having gentle, supportive products like these offers patients a valuable addition to their care plan.

Real-World Results: A Patient Success Story

I have a patient who was experiencing vulvar dryness and irritation, particularly around her period. She also has vestibulodynia (pain at the vestibule), which can be complex and multifactorial. As part of her care, she’s receiving pelvic floor physical therapy and working closely with a sexual medicine specialist to address other contributing factors.

That said, incorporating the Momotaro Salve into her routine has helped alleviate some of the irritation, and has been helpful in adjunct to her comprehensive treatment plan.

Learn More About Our Best Selling Salve

 

Why Natural, Plant-Based Vaginal Care Matters

Q: How do natural remedies fit into vaginal health?

In my opinion, I believe plant-based remedies have an important role in vulvovaginal care, especially as we continue to see the overprescription of antibiotics for conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV). I often see patients who are prescribed antibiotics even before their culture results are back, which can lead to unnecessary disruption of the vaginal and gut microbiome.

This is where products like these can be helpful in supporting symptom relief while working to restore balance to the vaginal pH and microbiome. For those experiencing recurrent infections, it’s crucial to dig deeper and identify the root cause rather than relying on antibiotic after antibiotic. Otherwise, we risk creating a vicious cycle that worsens the problem instead of resolving it.

 

Add Microbiome Support To Your Daily Routine

The Bigger Picture: Bridging the Gap in Vaginal Health

Q: Do you think conventional medicine adequately supports vulvovaginal health?

While I believe we’re making progress, there’s still significant room for growth. Emerging research continues to highlight the lack of formal training in physical exams of specific vulvar structures, like the clitoris and vulvar vestibule. This gap in education helps explain why so many women and vulva owners feel unsupported or dismissed when voicing vulvovaginal concerns. It points to a much broader systemic issue. I envision bridging this gap through continued research, comprehensive education, and a more open, non-judgmental approach to care.

Where to Find a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

Navigating pelvic or vulvovaginal issues? You are not alone. I encourage anyone experiencing pelvic pain or vulvovaginal symptoms to find a pelvic floor PT near them.

Here are some great directories:

• Vagina Rehab Doctor WOC PT Directory
• Pelvic Rehab Directory
• Pelvic Guru Directory
• APTA Pelvic Health Locator

Navigating vulvovaginal health can be a challenging journey. I see it firsthand in my patients and have experienced it myself. But please know, you’re not alone. There are hearts committed to change and a community that truly cares.

“Created with transparency, vulnerability, and a deep intention to support women and vulva owners on their healing journey”—Jillian Giannini, PT, DPT

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns or conditions.

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Further Reading:

All Natural Ingredients, All the Time

8 Ways to Use Our Tonic Oil for Everywhere

3 Things That Changed My Vaginal Health FOREVER

10 Vaginal Smells & What They Mean About Your Health

3 Common Infections and WTF to do