A woman with vaginismus experiences involuntary or persistent contractions of the muscles around her vagina. A painful or uncomfortable experience may result from vaginal penetration, tampon insertion, or pelvic examination as a result. Women with vaginismus may experience physical, emotional, and sexual distress, as well as a negative impact on their relationships and quality of life.
The exact cause of vaginismus is not known, but it may be related to various factors, such as:
Past sexual abuse, trauma, or violence
Fear of sex, pregnancy, or pain
Negative feelings or beliefs about sex
Anxiety, stress, or depression
Pelvic infections, injuries, or surgeries
Menopause and hormonal changes
It is a psychological and physiological response that can be triggered by a variety of situations or stimuli, but is not a sign of a serious illness or disease.
The main symptom of vaginismus is the involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles when something tries to enter the vagina. This can cause:
Difficulty or inability to have vaginal penetration
Pain, burning, or stinging sensation during penetration
Fear or anxiety of penetration
Reduced or absent sexual desire or arousal
Low self-esteem or confidence
Relationship problems or dissatisfaction
From woman to woman, and from time to time, vaginismus can vary in severity. It is possible for some women to have vaginismus only during certain situations, such as sex or pelvic exams, whereas others may have it in any situation that involves vaginal penetration. While some women develop vaginismus from their first attempts at penetration, others may develop it later in life after having normal sexual experiences.
Vaginismus can be diagnosed by a doctor or a therapist who specializes in sexual health. The diagnosis is based on:
A medical and sexual history, where the doctor or therapist will ask questions about the symptoms, the onset, the frequency, and the impact of vaginismus on the woman’s life
A physical examination, where the doctor or therapist will gently examine the vagina and the pelvic area to rule out any physical causes of pain or discomfort
A psychological assessment, where the doctor or therapist will evaluate the woman’s emotional and mental state, and explore any possible psychological factors that may contribute to vaginismus
Women may feel ashamed, embarrassed, or guilty about talking about vaginismus. However, with proper guidance and support, vaginismus can be treated and overcome.
The treatment of vaginismus depends on the individual needs and preferences of each woman, and may involve a combination of different approaches, such as:
An education and counseling session in which the doctor or therapist provides information and advice about vaginismus, its causes, its effects, and possible treatments. Additionally, the doctor or therapist will assist the woman in dealing with negative emotions, such as fear, anxiety, or shame, as well as improving her self-confidence and self-esteem.
The woman will learn how to contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles, and how to identify and release any tension or spasms around the vagina.
As the doctor or therapist recommends vaginal dilators, these devices are inserted into the vagina to gradually widen and stretch it. She will start with the smallest dilator and progress to larger ones as she becomes more comfortable and confident.
In order to enhance the intimacy and arousal between the woman and her partner, the doctor or therapist will encourage them to engage in non-penetrating sexual activities, such as touching, kissing, or oral sex. Additionally, the woman and her partner will learn how to communicate their needs and desires, as well as how to overcome obstacles.
The doctor or therapist will assist the woman in identifying and challenging negative beliefs and thoughts that may contribute to or worsen vaginismus through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The woman will also learn how to replace them with more positive and realistic ones, and how to cope with stressful or triggering situations.
Many women have been able to achieve vaginal penetration and experience sexual intercourse without pain or discomfort after treating vaginismus with time and effort.
Vaginismus can occur for a variety of reasons and at different times in a woman's life. However, there are some possible ways to reduce the risk or severity of vaginismus:
Seeking help as soon as possible if experiencing any symptoms of vaginismus, or any other sexual or pelvic problems
Maintaining good hygiene and health of the vagina and the pelvic area, and avoiding any infections, injuries, or irritations
Using lubricants during sexual activities, especially if experiencing vaginal dryness or menopause
Practicing pelvic floor exercises regularly to keep the muscles around the vagina strong and flexible
Having a positive and open attitude towards sex, and avoiding any pressure, guilt, or shame
Communicating with the partner about any sexual needs, preferences, or concerns, and seeking mutual understanding and support
Seeking professional counseling or therapy if experiencing any emotional or psychological issues, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma
Many women are affected by vaginismus, a condition that can be treated with proper diagnoses and treatment. It is not a failure, and it is nothing to be embarrassed about. With proper diagnosis and treatment, vaginismus can be overcome, and women can enjoy a healthy and satisfying sexual experience.
