Vaginismus

Vaginismus is considered a disorder of sexual dysfunction. It denotes an involuntary spasm or tightness of muscles that surrounding the vagina. This action or spasms closes the vagina. And make it impossible to penetrate during sexual intercourse, thus making the act very difficult or impossible and traumatic experience for the women that experiencing Vaginismus.

Vaginismus is a condition where there is involuntary tightness of the vagina during attempted intercourse. The tightness is actually caused by involuntary contractions of the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the vagina. The woman does not directly control or ‘will’ the tightness to occur; it is an involuntary pelvic response. She may not even have any awareness that the muscle response is causing the tightness or penetration problem.

Types of Vaginismus

Primary – has never been able to have pain-free intercourse due to this muscle spasm

Secondary – acquired later in life, due to childbirth, medical condition etc.

Vaginismus is involuntary or Unintentional

Vaginismus is not triggered, controlled or intentional by women. It occurs         involuntarily without their intentional control and without any awareness on their part.

Causes

Non-physical Causes

• Fears
• Partner
• Anxiety or stress
• Traumatic events
• Childhood experiences

Physical Causes

• Abuse
• Childbirth
• Medications
• Pelvic trauma
• Medical conditions.
• Age-related changes
• Temporary discomfort

Symptoms

• 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, urinary infections
• Sexual pain of unknown origin, with no apparent cause
• Difficulty inserting tampons or undergoing a pelvic exam
• Spasms in other body muscle groups like legs, lower back, etc  and/or difficulty breathing during attempts at intercourse

Treatment

Gradual vaginal dilation exercises using plastic dilators with aids of lubricants

Extensive therapy is one of the best treatments with combined education, counseling, and behavioral exercises.

Example of exercise: pelvic muscle contraction and relaxation or Kegel exercise

Masturbation – can be beneficial in recovering vaginismus

Essential oils massage:
Mixture of rose, jasmine sandalwood, rosemary to be used as sensual massage but genital areas must be avoided

Encouragement from a sexual partner

Prevention

Have a balanced diet
Avoid Sexual and emotional stress
Exercise regularly with focus on pelvic area