what-is-vaginismus : Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Vaginismus is a condition that can make sexual intercourse, gynecological exams and even tampon insertion painful, if not impossible.

Vaginismus is classified into two types:

• primary vaginismus: when vaginal penetration has never been achieved
• secondary vaginismus: when vaginal penetration was once achieved, but is no longer possible, potentially due to factors such as gynecologic surgery or radiation

What are the causes of Vaginisums?

There’s not always a reason for vaginismus. The condition has been linked to past sexual abuse or trauma, past painful intercourse, and emotional factors. In some cases, no direct cause can be found. To make a diagnosis, your doctor will do a physical exam and ask about your medical and sexual history. These histories can help give clues to the underlying cause of the contractions.

What are the symptoms of Vaginisum?

• Burning or stinging with tightness during sex
• Difficult or impossible penetration, entry pain, uncomfortable insertion of penis
• Unconsummated marriage
• Ongoing sexual discomfort or pain following childbirth, yeast/urinary infections, STDs, IC, hysterectomy, cancer and surgeries, rape, menopause.
• Ongoing sexual pain of unknown origin, with no apparent cause
• Difficulty inserting tampons or undergoing a pelvic/gynecological exam
• Spasms in other body muscle groups (legs, lower back, etc.) and/or halted breathing during attempts at intercourse
• Avoidance of sex due to pain and/or failure

How is Vaginisum treated?

Vaginismus is a treatable disorder. Treatment for vaginismus typically includes a combination of :-

•  Pelvic floor control exercises
• Insertion or dilation training
• Education and counseling
• Emotional exercises