Ep 122. From vulvodynia to vestibulectomy to creating a film about it w/ Bonnie Gross

In this episode, I’m joined by Bonnie Gross, the writer and executive producer of Lady Parts, a comedy based on her real-life experience with vulvodynia, vestibulodynia, pelvic floor dysfunction, and vestibulectomy surgery.

We talk about what it is actually like to live with vulvar pain, from pain with tampons, sex, sitting, tight clothes, and everyday life, to the years of medical gaslighting that so many women face before getting real answers. I also share parts of my own story with vulvodynia and surgery, which made this conversation feel especially personal.

Bonnie opens up about finally getting diagnosed, undergoing a vestibulectomy, navigating recovery, and dealing with the emotional toll chronic pelvic pain can take on intimacy, relationships, mental health, and self-worth. We also talk about painful Pap smears, trauma in gynecology offices, why trauma-informed care matters, and how Lady Parts is helping more people feel seen through humor, honesty, and storytelling.

This episode is for anyone dealing with vulvodynia, vestibulodynia, painful sex, chronic pelvic pain, bladder pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, or the feeling that your body is being dismissed.

In this episode, we cover:

• Vulvodynia and neuroproliferative vestibulodynia

• Vestibulectomy surgery and recovery

• Pelvic floor dysfunction and chronic pain

• Medical gaslighting in women’s health

• Painful sex, tampons, and Pap smears

• Shame, intimacy, and relationships

• Trauma-informed gynecologic care

• Bonnie’s film Lady Parts and where to watch it

Follow Lady Parts & Watch The Film:

Follow Lady Parts for upcoming screenings, streaming updates, and ways to support the film.

WATCH THE FILM HERE

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