Vaginismus is when the pelvic floor muscles involuntarily tighten up when someone is about to have or is undergoing vaginal penetration. This can make penetration painful or even impossible. As a sexual pain disorder, those with vaginismus might feel discomfort, anxiety, or pain during certain activities.
The severity of vaginismus can vary. In some severe cases, it makes vaginal penetration impossible, complicating routine gynecological exams or sexual activity, which can in turn affect emotional well-being and intimacy in relationships.
Fortunately, there is effective treatment available. A healthcare provider can work with you to create a treatment plan based on how severe your symptoms are and what you’re comfortable with. Vaginismus is classified into two main types: primary and secondary. In primary vaginismus, the person has always experienced pain during penetration. Secondary or acquired vaginismus is when penetration used to be pain-free but later becomes painful or impossible. Additionally, vaginismus can be global, affecting all forms of vaginal penetration, or situational, affecting only specific situations.
The symptoms of vaginismus include the involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles around the vagina, making penetration painful or impossible. In addition to physical symptoms, individuals may experience feelings of shame, embarrassment, fear, and anxiety related to the condition.
The exact cause of vaginismus remains unclear, though a combination of physical and psychological factors may contribute. For diagnosis, visiting a healthcare provider is essential. They will conduct a medical history review and a physical exam, including personal questions that may seem uncomfortable but are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
The main goal of treating vaginismus is to manage the mental and physical aspects preventing comfortable penetration. You might work with various providers, such as a gynecologist, physical therapist, and sexual therapist. The treatment approach will depend on how severe the symptoms are and personal comfort levels.
Treatment options may include pelvic floor physical therapy to help you manage and relax the muscles, Kegel exercises, and the use of vaginal dilators. In some cases, prescription gels like lidocaine or Botox injections can help by reducing sensitivity and relaxing the muscles. Psychotherapy might also be recommended if underlying psychological factors are suspected.
While it is difficult to prevent vaginismus given its unclear causes, understanding ways to alleviate the pain and discomfort can be beneficial. One issue is that vaginismus isn’t widely understood in the healthcare field, which can make finding treatment difficult. It’s important to be aware of the broader impacts on social, personal, and physical well-being.
Overall, addressing vaginismus requires a patient, open approach with your healthcare team. Milder cases may respond well to physical therapy or counseling, while severe symptoms might need combined treatments, potentially including Botox. Remember, progress may take time, and it’s okay to have concerns about discussing it with your provider, but what’s crucial is having open, honest communication.
