VAGINISMUS: What is it?

Discover what it is, causes, symptoms, treatment, and future action.

Are you experiencing pain or difficulty with sexual intercourse? You may be struggling with a condition called vaginismus. Vaginismus is a common but often misunderstood condition that causes the muscles of the vagina to tighten involuntarily, making sexual penetration painful or impossible. This condition can have a significant impact on a person's sexual and emotional well-being, but fortunately, there are effective treatments available. It's important to remember that having vaginismus is not a reflection of your worth as a person or your attractiveness to your partner. It is a common and treatable condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their age, sexual orientation, or level of sexual experience. It is okay to feel scared, anxious, or sad about your vaginismus, but it's important to know that you are not alone and that there is help available. Remember that you are not defined by your vaginismus and that seeking treatment can help you improve your sexual and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore what vaginismus is, its causes and prevalence, and the various treatment options that can help individuals overcome this condition and improve their livelihoods.

Vaginismus

Vaginismus is a condition that causes the muscles of the vagina, specifically the pelvic floor muscles, to tighten involuntarily, making sexual intercourse or other types of vaginal penetration painful or impossible. The pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles that support the pelvic organs and help regulate urine and bowel movements. In people with vaginismus, these muscles may contract or spasm in response to the anticipation of pain or discomfort during sexual activity, making it difficult or impossible for a person to relax their muscles and allow for penetration.

There are two types of vaginismus: primary vaginismus and secondary vaginismus; primary vaginismus is characterized by a woman's lifelong inability to have penetrative sexual intercourse. This type of vaginismus is often due to a fear of penetration or a lack of sexual education. Secondary vaginismus is characterized by a woman's sudden inability to have penetrative sexual intercourse after previously being able to do so. This type of vaginismus may be caused by physical conditions such as vaginitis or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or by psychological factors such as trauma, anxiety, or relationship problems.

Causes

There are several factors that may contribute to the development of vaginismus. For example, a history of sexual trauma or abuse can lead to negative associations with sexual activity and cause the muscles of the vagina to tense up in anticipation of pain. Negative attitudes about sex or a lack of knowledge about sexual anatomy and function can also contribute to vaginismus. Physical factors, such as hormonal imbalances or certain medical conditions, may also play a role. Some studies have suggested that low levels of estrogen, a hormone that plays a key role in female sexual function, may be associated with the condition. Other hormonal imbalances, such as abnormal levels of testosterone or prolactin, may also potentially contribute to the development of vaginismus.

Symptoms

Symptoms of vaginismus may include:

1. Difficulty or inability to have penetrative sexual intercourse

2. Painful or uncomfortable sexual intercourse

3. Difficulty inserting tampons or undergoing gynecological exams

4. Tightening or tensing of the muscles around the vagina during sexual activity

5. Fear or anxiety about sexual activity or penetration

6. Difficulty relaxing the pelvic muscles during sexual activity

It is important to note that these symptoms may vary in severity and may not be present in all cases of vaginismus. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider or a mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Treatment

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of vaginismus, it is important to seek help and treatment. Vaginismus is a treatable condition, and there are many resources available to support individuals who are struggling with this issue. Here are some steps to consider when seeking help and treatment for vaginismus:

1. Talk to a healthcare provider: A healthcare provider, such as a gynecologist or a primary care doctor, can help diagnose vaginismus and recommend treatment options. They can also rule out any physical conditions that may be contributing to the symptoms.

2. Seek therapy: Therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can be an effective treatment for vaginismus. A therapist can help individuals identify and address any underlying psychological issues that may be contributing to the condition. Speaking with a sex therapist or a sexologist can also help remedy prevailing issues.

3. Try relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation can help individuals manage anxiety and tension. These techniques may be particularly helpful when used in combination with therapy and other treatment methods.

4. Gradually desensitize the muscles: Gradually desensitizing the muscles around the vagina through exercises and training can help individuals become more comfortable with penetration. These exercises are typically done with the guidance of a healthcare provider or therapist. Often, dilators are prescribed to help individuals seize back control from vaginismus. Kegels are another great way to enhance pelvic floor muscle strength.

5. Seek support: It can be helpful to speak with a trusted friend or family member about your experiences with vaginismus. You may also find support through online support groups or by speaking with a mental health professional.

Vaginismus is a treatable condition, and there are many resources available to help individuals who are struggling with this issue. It is important to seek professional help and treatment in order to address the underlying causes of vaginismus and improve sexual function and satisfaction. Another fantastic education resource is sex educator Amirah Zaky who specializes in vaginismus coaching on Instagram and Youtube.