Vaginismus: What You Need to Know

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Vaginismus is a condition that affects some women who experience involuntary muscle spasms in their vagina when something tries to enter it. This can make sex, tampon use or pelvic exams very painful or impossible. Vaginismus can have different causes and types, but it can be treated with exercises, therapy and medical devices.

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Types of Vaginismus

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There are two main types of vaginismus:

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• Primary vaginismus: This is when a woman has never been able to insert anything into her vagina without pain or difficulty. It may start from the first time she tries to have sex or use a tampon. It is also called lifelong vaginismus.

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• Secondary vaginismus: This is when a woman has had pain-free sex or insertion before, but then it becomes hard or impossible. It may happen after an infection, trauma, surgery, menopause or other factors. It is also called acquired vaginismus.

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Causes of Vaginismus

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The exact cause of vaginismus is not known, but it is often linked to anxiety or fear of sex. Some possible factors that may contribute to vaginismus are:

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• Past sexual abuse, rape or trauma
• Negative feelings about sex or one's body
• Lack of sexual education or experience
• Religious or cultural beliefs that make sex shameful or sinful
• Relationship problems or trust issues
• Stress, depression or other mental health conditions
• Physical problems such as infections, dryness, injuries or allergies

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Symptoms of Vaginismus

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The main symptom of vaginismus is pain during vaginal penetration. The pain may feel like burning, stinging, tearing or hitting a wall. The pain may go away after withdrawal, but not always. Some women may also have:

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• Difficulty or inability to have sex or insert a tampon
• Fear of pain or sex
• Loss of sexual desire or pleasure
• Emotional distress or low self-esteem

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Treatment of Vaginismus

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Vaginismus can be treated with a combination of physical and psychological approaches. Some of the treatment options are:

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• Kegel exercises: These are exercises that strengthen and relax the pelvic floor muscles that control the vagina. They can help women gain more awareness and control over their vaginal muscles and reduce spasms.
• Vaginal dilators: These are medical devices that come in different sizes and shapes. They are used to gradually stretch and open the vagina. Women can use them at home with lubricant and guidance from a doctor or therapist.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): This is a type of psychotherapy that helps women identify and change negative thoughts and beliefs that may cause or worsen vaginismus. It can also help women cope with anxiety, fear and trauma related to sex.
• Sex therapy: This is a specialised form of therapy that focuses on improving sexual function and satisfaction. It can help women and their partners communicate better, explore their sexuality and overcome sexual difficulties.
• Medication: Some medications may help reduce pain, inflammation or infection in the vagina. They may also help treat underlying mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety.

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Vaginismus is not a permanent condition. With proper treatment and support, most women can overcome it and enjoy a healthy and fulfilling sexual life.

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Sources

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Vaginismus: Dyspareunia, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment - Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15723-vaginismus

Vaginismus: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment - WebMD https://www.webmd.com/women/vaginismus-causes-symptoms-treatments

What is Vaginismus and its causes and related conditions? - MSN https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/symptoms/Vaginismus/hp-vaginismus