Vaginismus

Vaginismus refers to genital pain specifically caused by tension in the vaginal muscles, which makes intercourse painful. When vaginismus occurs, a woman's vaginal muscles may become so tight that penetration becomes impossible. Any sort of intercourse is painful and this eventually causes avoidance of sex altogether. Pain may be directly caused by sexual intercourse, or may even be felt when inserting a tampon or having a pelvic examination. Medically speaking, vaginismus is an involuntary reaction of a woman's body to protect itself from more pain that comes with insertion.

Causes Of Vaginismus

Vaginismus may be a medical or psychological problem. Some women who experience vaginismus will be completely unaffected on a mental and emotional level. They have positive attitudes towards sex, they enjoy many sexual activities with their partner; perhaps they can even reach orgasm. But when it comes to penetration, sex is unbearably painful. In cases like this, a medical condition is to blame, whether genetic or because of some physical trauma. A gynecologist would have to diagnose the cause, and in most cases, sexual therapy would be recommended in the recovery process.

The condition can also be the result of a psychological problem or even a past trauma. Women who have been raped or have a history of abuse will sometimes report problems with the condition. They may have a deeply instilled fear of penetration, associating it with violation, and may unconsciously resist intercourse as a way of protecting themselves. Other women may have a fear of sex in general. They may have been raised in a strict background where sexual education was not available, and believe consciously or unconsciously that sex is dangerous. Perhaps they have been taught that sex is dirty, sinful, or even that their private parts are disgusting. Instilled attitudes like these affect people deeply, especially if they were formed during youth.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing vaginismus requires a detailed medical history and physical examination by a gynecologist. Vaginismus is not easy to diagnose since it is situation-dependent. For example, women might not feel pain when a speculum is used during the examination, but may feel pain when penetrated by a penis. Also, a woman may experience vaginismus with one partner, but have no pain with another. Therefore, a very detailed examination with medical history and a patient's personal history is required to ascertain the problem.

The good news is that treatment for vaginismus usually works, with a success rate as high as 80% for all cases. What treatment might be recommended after a diagnosis? Relaxation techniques might be suggested, as well as methods of sensate focus and psychotherapy, especially if there are major psychological issues contributing to the condition. Kegel exercises are often recommended, as they relax the vaginal muscles, as are other forms of sexual exercises involving slow insertion that can be done at home, with or without a partner. Sexual therapy is usually helpful in treating vaginismus, since each woman can move at her own pace in recovery.

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