Pelvic Physical Therapy Speciality:

Teenagers & Adolescents

At Rehab For Her, Shannon DeSalvo is deeply committed to helping young women navigate the sensitive and often confusing world of pelvic health. Shannon understands that adolescence can bring unique challenges, especially when it comes to managing sensitive conditions like imperforate hymen, vaginismus, lichen sclerosus, and pelvic floor tension that can make daily activities—like using a tampon—difficult or even painful.

As a mom herself, Shannon DeSalvo, PT, holds a special place in her heart for teens and young women who are facing these personal challenges. Many young patients feel anxiety about their first pelvic exam or struggle with feelings of embarrassment or discomfort about their bodies. 

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Common Pelvic Challenges Teens Experience

Shannon’s approach is gentle, compassionate, and patient, creating a safe space where teens can feel secure and understood while receiving the care they need.

Inability to Use a Tampon
  • What it is: Difficulty or inability to insert a tampon due to pelvic floor muscle tension or other structural issues.
  • How it might feel: Pain, discomfort, or a feeling of blockage when attempting to use tampons.
Painful First Pelvic Exam
  • What it is: Discomfort or fear related to undergoing a pelvic exam, often due to pelvic floor tension.
  • How it might feel: Anxiety and physical pain when trying to undergo the exam, making it difficult for teens to feel comfortable or relaxed.

Pelvic Floor Conditions In Teens & Adolescents

Pelvic Pain & Pelvic Floor Tension (Myalgia)
  • What it is: Pelvic pain can result from muscle dysfunction, inflammation, or hormonal changes, often linked to overactive or tight pelvic floor muscles.
  • How it might feel: Constant or intermittent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis, particularly during physical activities, menstruation, or even while sitting.
Vaginismus
  • What it is: Involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles when anything tries to enter the vagina.
  • How it might feel: Pain or difficulty inserting a tampon or undergoing a pelvic exam, or pain during any vaginal penetration.
Menstrual-Related Pelvic Pain (Dysmenorrhea)
  • What it is: Severe menstrual cramps due to pelvic floor tension or other underlying conditions.
  • How it might feel: Intense, sharp pelvic pain during menstruation that can limit daily activities or cause significant discomfort.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help Teens:

Learn how to relax and strengthen pelvic floor muscles.

Receive guidance on managing symptoms and using tampons without discomfort.

Get tools to reduce menstrual pain and improve bladder and bowel function.

Address concerns about pelvic exams and sexual health, with education and gentle treatment.

Urinary Incontinence
  • What it is: Loss of bladder control, leading to accidental leakage of urine.
  • How it might feel: Sudden leak of urine during exercise, coughing, sneezing, or laughing. This can be especially embarrassing for teens in social or athletic situations.
Chronic constipation
  • What it is: Difficulty passing bowel movements due to pelvic floor dysfunction.
  • How it might feel: Straining or pain when trying to have a bowel movement, feeling of incomplete evacuation, or needing to use your hands to assist in going to the bathroom.
Imperforate Hymen
  • What it is: A congenital condition where the hymen completely covers the vaginal opening.
  • How it might feel: Pain or difficulty inserting tampons or experiencing menstrual blood buildup without being able to release it, leading to pelvic pain or discomfort.
Postural Problems Related to Rapid Growth
  • What it is: Pelvic floor issues in teens experiencing rapid growth spurts, leading to poor posture & muscle imbalances.
  • How it might feel: Back or hip pain, pelvic discomfort, or awkwardness during physical activities due to changes in body alignment.
Lichen Sclerosus (LS)
  • What it is: A skin condition that affects the vulva, causing white patches and thinning of the skin.
  • How it might feel: Itchiness, burning, or discomfort in the vulva area, making sitting or using the bathroom uncomfortable.

Helping Teens & Adolescents Manage Pelvic Health

When you bring your teen to Rehab For Her Prairie Village, KS, they’ll be in a welcoming and private environment where their comfort and privacy are top priorities. Shannon takes the time to discuss your teen's unique situation and thoroughly explains each step before starting any treatment.

With Shannon's expertise and dedication, many patients see significant improvements in just 3 to 5 sessions.

If you or your teen are facing challenges related to pelvic health, know that you’re not alone. Shannon is here to help guide you through these issues with care, understanding, and expert knowledge.

I am a teen so going to my first appointment was nerve racking but every time I become more and more comfortable ... I have made an immense amount of progress over 5 appointments.

Shannon makes me completely comfortable every appointment and I will recommend her to others!

Zoe K.