Vaginismus

What Is Vaginismus?

Vaginismus is a condition in which the muscles of a woman’s vagina involuntarily tighten or spasm when something attempts to enter it, such as a tampon, finger, or penis. The intensity can range from mildly uncomfortable to intensely painful, depending on the individual.

Types of Vaginismus

There are two main types of vaginismus:

• Primary Vaginismus: This occurs when a woman experiences pain every time something tries to enter her vagina, whether it’s during penetrative sex or when attempting to insert a tampon. Some women may have never been able to insert anything into their vagina. This type is also known as lifelong vaginismus.

• Secondary Vaginismus: This type happens when a woman has previously had sex without pain, but over time, penetration becomes difficult or impossible. This is often referred to as acquired vaginismus.

Symptoms of Vaginismus

The hallmark symptom of vaginismus is painful sex (dyspareunia), which occurs only during penetration and usually disappears once the object is withdrawn, though not always. Some women describe it as a burning sensation or the feeling that the penis is “hitting a wall.”

Other symptoms include:

• Inability to have penetrative sex or insert tampons
• Fear of pain or fear of sex
• Loss of sexual desire

These symptoms are involuntary, meaning they happen without the woman’s control and require treatment to overcome.

Causes of Vaginismus

The exact cause of vaginismus remains unclear, but it’s often associated with anxiety or fear related to sexual activity. Sometimes, the anxiety precedes the vaginismus; other times, the vaginismus may create the anxiety.

In some cases, women experience vaginismus in all situations, regardless of the object or partner involved. In other cases, they may only experience it under specific circumstances, such as with one partner but not others, or with sexual intercourse but not during medical exams or tampon use.

Additionally, other factors, such as infections or vaginal dryness, can contribute to painful sex. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to identify any underlying causes.

Diagnosis of Vaginismus

Diagnosing vaginismus involves a discussion with your doctor about your symptoms, medical history, and sexual history. A pelvic exam will be conducted to rule out other potential causes of pain. In some cases, treatment may be necessary before the pelvic exam can be tolerated. Your healthcare provider will take the exam slowly, gently, and explain each step to ensure you feel comfortable.

Treatment for Vaginismus

There are several approaches to managing and treating vaginismus, most of which involve exercises and relaxation techniques:

1. Kegel Exercises: These exercises help women learn to control and relax the muscles around the vagina. Here’s how to perform Kegels:

   • Squeeze the muscles you use to stop urinating.
   • Hold the squeeze for 2 to 10 seconds.
   • Relax the muscles.
   • Perform about 20 Kegels at a time, multiple times a day.

2. Progressive Desensitization: After becoming familiar with Kegel exercises, women can try inserting one finger into the vagina while doing the exercises. Start with one finger and gradually work up to two or three. You may use lubricating jelly to ease the process. Alternatively, try the exercises in a bathtub, where water can act as a natural lubricant.

3. Vaginal Dilators: Cone-shaped inserts are used to gently stretch the vaginal muscles and help them get used to pressure. They are often inserted for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, gradually increasing the size over time.

4. Therapy: For women whose vaginismus is linked to fear or anxiety, therapy with a mental health professional can help address the emotional and psychological aspects contributing to the condition.

Vaginismus can be a challenging condition, but with the right guidance and treatment, women can find relief and regain control over their sexual health.

For professional guidance, feel free to consult Saivie | Best Gynecologist in Shapoorji Newtown | Dr. Sai Dibyadarshini Bhuyan. You can visit us at HG77+M3, Chhapna Panchayat Rd, Action Area III, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal 700156, or call us at 081003 91119. More information can be found on our website: Saivie.in.