I had the pleasure of interviewing Tara Langdale, Inventor and Founder of VuVa Dilators, which help women who suffer from painful intercourse all around the globe. The VuVa Magnetic Dilator set is a nonprescription program that is proven to relieve pelvic pain. VuVa is committed to bring relief, comfort and hope, to the millions of women suffering from pelvic pain conditions. Their mission: To HELP allow the sexual intimacy that women may desire with safe and natural healing, revitalizing the quality of life that they deserve.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! What is your “backstory”?
For four long years, I suffered from vulvodynia, experiencing sharp, stabbing, burning pain in my pelvic area, making it impossible to enjoy sexual intimacy with my future husband. The pain, both physical, emotional and mental, was agonizing and impacted my quality of life.
From my previous positive experience using magnets to reduce back and neck nerve pain after a car accident, I had an entrepreneurial “lightbulb moment” to add neodymium magnets into a vaginal dilator. With the help of medical experts and advisors, I turned my idea into a nonprescription device that is clinically proven to help women relieve pelvic pain and sexual discomfort. We have helped over 10,000 women in the past three years.
Why did you found your company?
Through my own experience, I noticed that these pelvic pain conditions were going undiagnosed and women were left feeling hopeless. I decided I wanted to help these women in any way possible, so I made a magnetic vaginal dilator set that works better than the average set. I also wanted to create more pelvic pain awareness which I have done successfully by sharing my story so women know they are not alone.
What is it about the work you’re doing that’s disruptive?
I talk about vaginas and sex all day. I share my story everywhere and many people think it is taboo to talk about. Vaginal dilators make people feel uncomfortable for some reason. I don’t know why. If you have cervical cancer or many other cancers you have to use dilators after. This is just another part of your body and treatment plan. You do not need to be ashamed. Even some women shy away from the subject, why? It is a normal part of life. We need to start pressing for answers and become more aggressive about demanding answers and not pain pills from our doctors.
We all need a little help along the journey — who have been some of your mentors?
Robert Smithson who is my business partner has been the most influential mentor to me. He has successfully been in business for over 40 years and knows the do’s and dont’s when dealing with manufacturers and vendors. He always stays on good terms with people even if they have done him wrong. He always keeps his cool in any situation.
How are you going to shake things up next?
I’m not planning on shaking things up in the near future. I’m too busy running my company and responding to women from all over the world who are seeking information or help. Being a startup entrepreneur takes up almost 24/7 of my time. I need to put all my efforts into now, and worry about next way down the road.
Can you share 3 of the best words of advice you’ve gotten along your journey? Patience: Find the right team to help with your startup.
Research: Just because someone gives you a deal doesn’t mean the product will be up to par.
Help: If your mission is to help others, your business will truly be fulfilling.
What’s a book/podcast/talk that’s had a deep impact on your thinking? Share a story with us.
I don’t read books or listen to podcasts. My mind is always thinking about that next step and I never pay attention. I guess that is alright because I never stop improving my business and marketing strategies.
Some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might see this. 🙂
Gary Vanerchuk, I would like to ask him the best bay to market when the world is against you. Because I sell vaginal dilators, it blocks me from advertising most places. I am always on the grind looking for new marketing opportunities that will allow me to help women who suffer from these painful pelvic conditions.
How can our readers follow you on social media?
@pelvicpainpro on Twitter
PelvicPainHelp on Instagram
Pelvic Pain Help on Facebook
Originally published at medium.com