Testimonials
My problem came to my attention when I was about 13 years old and was attempting to use tampons for the first time. All of my friends were using tampons so, naturally, I wanted to join in on all the fun. My first attempt was followed by countless other unsuccessful and painful attempts at using tampons. I missed out on countless pool parties and vacations. As I grew older, I realized how my inability to use tampons could affect my future sex life and therefore, I consulted my general physician about the problem. She brushed it off, saying it would probably resolve itself. When it didn’t, I consulted a few different OB-GYN’s who, after many painful pokes and prods, suggested surgery or just waiting it out. Even my friends and family told me to just toughen up- that I was being a baby. I carried those comments around with me for several years before I found Dr. Bolden. I felt relief at my first appointment just knowing that the pain WAS NOT something I could just deal with- it would take time and professional help in treating my problem.
Dr. Bolden is fantastic at what she does and made me feel 100% comfortable in her office. She took the time to really understand what I had been through and what my problems were- something no doctor had done before. After only a few appointments, I was able to wear tampons (comfortably) for the first time in my life! The appointments were painful at times, but it was completely bearable. Dr. Bolden never made me do anything I was not comfortable with or ready for. Something that had plagued me for about 9 years was resolved in the matter of a few months!
Any woman suffering from pelvic pain should not hesitate to contact Dr. Bolden. If I can do it, you absolutely can too!! Thank you, Dr. Bolden, for everything!
During the summer of 2004, I experienced a sudden onset of pain. Pain that I thought surely must be a severe urinary tract infection. Tests showed no infection present, and that was the beginning of visits to countless numbers of doctors and a 1.5 year search for the cause and relief of the pain. Eventually I was diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis – but this was a diagnosis by exclusion. I was on medication and a strict diet – and the pain eventually lessened. After 2 years, I weaned myself of the meds, but continued to watch what I was eating. During the month of May, 2009, the same type of intense pain suddenly returned. Again, tests showed no urinary tract infection. I became distraught thinking about the road ahead of me. A stroke of luck led me to Women First Rehabilitation’s website. During my first visit, for the first time ever, I felt as if someone (Dr. Sara Bolden) was truly interested in me and what I was experiencing. Dr. Bolden is the most sincere, compassionate, and knowledgeable person I have ever met in regards to women and women’s health. I am 63, and can’t believe the things she taught me about my body. I recall my first visit ending with me saying, “Hope is a wonderful thing.” That hope of living pain free and having my life back became a reality! I no longer go for treatment, but just knowing Sara is there if I ever need her is a true blessing.
I cannot thank Dr. Bolden with Women First Rehabilitation enough for the amazing transformation in my health and my attitude. I was diagnosed with interstitial cystitis almost 3 years ago and lived with constant pelvic floor and bladder pain. My symptoms were just barely managed by expensive medications and costly visits to the urologist. I just accepted that my life was always going to be that way. Fortunately, I found my way to Dr.Bolden's practice, and I cannot believe the difference she's made in my life. Every step of the way, Dr. Bolden was caring, passionate, and taught me so much about my own body. All of her advice was helpful and her insights all turned out to be correct. After just 6 physical therapy sessions (and as long as I'm compliant with my exercises), the changes have been incredible. I have been able to stop 3 of my medications. I haven't had to take pain medication for an intersititial cystitis "flare" in months when it used to be several times a week. I've been able to incorporate more foods back into my diet which before would have caused a "flare". Intercourse with my husband is no longer painful. I feel like the old me again!
Just a note to express my gratitude to you for the relief of pain that I now have when my husband and I engage in intercourse. At first, I was skeptical as to how a women's health physical therapy doctor could help me with this problem. I had for many years discussed this pain with my ob/gyn and there never seemed to be lasting relief available. Thank you for taking the time to educate me on what my pelvic floor muscles were doing and how scar tissue, from three C-sections, played into my pain. I have also noticed that I am able to have a bowel movement daily which in the past was sometimes weekly. Additionally, my urinary incontinence has completely resolved. Again, I want to thank you for helping me so much!
"I was told the pain was all in my head. I am so amazed at how good I feel! I never thought I could get lasting relief."
"Dr. Bolden is attentive and thorough. She really takes time to listen to her patients and educate them on what's going on."
"I wish I had come to you sooner!"
