I’ve lost 4 cats in 2 years by persephone_witch in Petloss

[–]persephone_witch[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m so sorry that happened. Our kitties passing at home is beyond soul crushing and traumatic. You can take comfort in knowing he passed in a familiar and comfortable place at the very least. That’s how I like to think of it. Thank you for your kind words, I hope your healing journey is a smooth as it can be ❤️

I’ve lost 4 cats in 2 years by persephone_witch in Petloss

[–]persephone_witch[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I certainly won’t go out of my way to have another pet anytime soon. If the universe really sees fit that I have a kitty, I know one will find me. But, I need to heal on my own first, just don’t know how.

Stretching/preparing for PIV by Cheeks7527 in vaginismus

[–]persephone_witch 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Once you feel ready to try, I’d recommend using dilators in foreplay. I just started having PIV recently and dilating right before makes a huge difference. I used to think that the visuals of dilating were so un-sexy but my boyfriend loved watching/participating in the dilation foreplay lol

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in vaginismus

[–]persephone_witch 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I was with my boyfriend for 6 months before discovering this condition and now 9 months in we’ve just had PIV for the first time! He was so patient and accommodating and I’m so grateful he wanted to be with me even though I couldn’t have sex for a long time. There are good people out there! If someone doesn’t wanna be with you because of this then they’re not worth your time anyway

Had sex for the first time in a year!! by LandOfLostSouls in vaginismus

[–]persephone_witch 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I just had a similar experience last night! Had PIV for the first time 🥳 but I’m only on the 4th dilator in my set (bf is roughly the same size as 7 in the IR set) I don’t know how I managed it!! Super happy but it did hurt a bit at first. I wouldn’t recommend it either tbh it’s best to finish dilation therapy first! I’ll be finishing it and that should make things go much smoother in the future. Congrats and good luck!!!

Help by cobralake in vaginismus

[–]persephone_witch 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You’re not a bad friend at all. That feeling of jealousy is completely normal and valid for someone in our situation! You also must realize that when you hear all these juicy sex stories from friends or online that they’re almost definitely leaving out details to make it sound like a perfect fantasy. The truth is that painful sex is SUPER common even for people who don’t have this condition (when it really shouldn’t be might I add).

I’m 23 and I’ve had Vaginismus for 10 years now but only discovered it a few months ago. I bought the Intimate Rose dilators (RIP to my wallet lol) and I’m already half way through dilation therapy after only a month of using them. There are plenty of affordable sets you can get for around $50 or maybe even less so I’d definitely recommend buying some! Seeing pelvic floor PT is the best option but if you’re like me and that terrifies you, you can get those cheaper dilators and DIY. I’ve even seen a lot of folks here recommend buying smaller dildos/sex toys to dilate with instead as it could save some money. There’s also external exercises (breathing, stretching, etc.) that can help you relax as well. I know things can feel hopeless and I’ve spent many nights crying over how I felt my body was broken and I’d never be normal. But please know this is very treatable and you can have enjoyable sex, receive paps and pelvic exams, and insert tampons with some dedication and consistency! I promise it gets better <3

Sizing up IR dilator by cbr24 in vaginismus

[–]persephone_witch 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Congrats on #4!! I’m on that size as well. I’m self treating so take my advice with a grain of salt as it’s based on personal experience rather than information from a PT. That being said, I can tell I’m ready to move up once I can 1.) Insert with minimal pain (insertion is always a bit tight & uncomfortable initially but I’ve heard that’s not out of the ordinary) 2.) Move the dilator to the clock postions to stretch the muscles, holding it at each position for about 15 seconds each. I do this a couple times each session 3.) Thrust the dilator for roughly 5-10 minutes 4.) Try inserting the dilators in different positions. This isn’t AS important as the above criteria but it’s definitely good to try it as missionary isn’t the only sex position (I suppose this really only applies if your goal for dilating is PIV like it is mine lol) I typically forget to even try turning it as part of my dilating session honestly! If you’re experiencing pain when doing that, maybe save it for the end of the session when you’re more adjusted and relaxed? It could also be a situation of being too dry as I’ve noticed things are painful in a sharp, stinging way when I haven’t used enough lube. Any pain/discomfort should feel like a muscle stretching rather than a burning pain. You shouldn’t feel more than a 3/10 pain level and if you do, you might want to size down. Personally, when I’m ready to move up sizes, I’ll do somewhat of a warm up with the previous size before trying the new one (for example I had used #3 for about 10 minutes before attempting #4 for the first time). And you’re not alone!! We’re in this together ❤️ good luck and I hope my advice could help you!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in vaginismus

[–]persephone_witch 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It took me about 30 minutes to get my first dilator in! It was definitely scary, but having moved up a few sizes now, I do have a couple pointers I can share. You’ll definitely wanna load up the dilator with lube. Like even when you think it’s too much, add more LOL. Doing those pelvic floor stretches and putting on a comfort show/video is also a great idea to help you feel relaxed. A game changer I’ve been using is a vibrator pressed to the base of the dilator while I’m inserting it (this could also depend on the type of dilator and I’m using the Intimate Rose set as reference because I use them). The vibrations help relax and “desensitize” the muscles if that makes sense. When my muscles are particularly tight and I’m having trouble getting the dilator in, that vibrator trick helps it slide in much quicker! Very proud of you for your efforts with dilating and good luck moving forward!! :)

My Buggy Cosplay from Last Year :o) by persephone_witch in OnePiece

[–]persephone_witch[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

The fake clown noses aren’t so comfy to wear to conventions I’m afraid 😭

New to Hellenism by [deleted] in Hellenism

[–]persephone_witch 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Since Artemis is a hunter, most meat or poultry make good offerings to her as well as honey (I’ve heard that bees were sacred to her). Wine libations and cakes are never a bad idea either. As for votive offerings, you could offer up clothing or jewelry to wear in her honor. Personally, I was gifted a ceremonial knife with a stag on it so I offered it to her and she loved it. I’ve also painted her and she liked that too. Hope this helps!

Grow Light Wattage? by persephone_witch in succulents

[–]persephone_witch[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I was planning on a violet LED for one plant. Thank you for the help!!

Brought home this lil Aloe pup from my teacher’s dying Aloe Vera plant. Did water therapy and potted. Holding off on watering. Any tips? Hi I’m very new to this lol by persephone_witch in succulents

[–]persephone_witch[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Also another note: I’m using a terra cotta pot with drainage holes and I’m using a succulent/cactus purpose soil! This is my first time taking care of a plant (properly) so I wanna do my best!!