Vaginismus

What is Vaginismus?

Vaginismus is a sexual dysfunction. It is an involuntary spasm of the muscles surrounding the vagina that closes the vagina. Vaginismus causes penetration to be difficult, painful, or even impossible.

Vaginismus is very uncommon. It occurs in less than 2% of women in the US.

What causes Vaginismus?

Vaginismus is a complex condition that can be caused by many things. The most common causes are: sexual trauma or abuse, psychological factors, or a history of discomfort with sexual intercourse. In some cases, the cause cannot be determined.

Symptoms of Vaginismus

There are many symptoms of vaginismus. The most common symptoms are:

• Difficulty or inability to allow vaginal penetration for intercourse
• Vaginal pain with attempts at intercourse
• Vaginal pain during attempted pelvic exam

How is Vaginismus Diagnosed?

A gynecological examination is often used to confirm vaginismus. During the examination, there is usually an involuntary muscle contraction when fingers are inserted into the vagina, and this usually reproduces the pain the woman feels with intercourse.

A medical history and complete exam is important to rule out other causes of pain with sexual intercourse.

Can Vaginismus be Treated?

Vaginismus can be treated . The treatment most often used is an extensive therapy program that combines education and counseling with behavioral exercises. Exercises include pelvic floor muscle contraction and relaxation (Kegel exercises) to improve voluntary control.

Vaginal dilation exercises are recommended using plastic dilators. This should be done under the direction of a sex therapist or other health care provider and treatment should involve the partner.

Educational treatment, including information about sexual anatomy, physiology, the sexual response cycle, and common myths about sex, should be provided as well.

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