Vaginismus Treatment

Vaginismus is the involuntary tensing or contracting of muscles around the vagina. The vagina is part of the female reproductive system. It connects the lower part of the uterus (cervix) to the outside of the body.

These unintentional muscle spasms occur when something — a penis, finger, tampon or medical instrument — attempts to penetrate the vagina. The spasms may be mildly uncomfortable or very painful.

How common is vaginismus?

Experts don’t know how many people have vaginismus. Many people may be too embarrassed to talk about the problem with their healthcare providers.

Who might get vaginismus?

Vaginismus symptoms may appear during the late teen years or early adulthood when a person has sex for the first time. The condition can also happen the first time a person tries to insert a tampon or has a pelvic exam at a healthcare provider’s office.

Some women develop vaginismus later in life. It can happen after years without any problems. Spasms or discomfort may occur anytime there’s vaginal penetration. Or you may have them only at certain times, such as during sex or pelvic exams.

Symptoms and Causes

Healthcare experts aren’t sure why some people experience vaginismus. It can cause physical, psychological and sexual issues. Bladder infections, UTIs and yeast infections can worsen vaginismus pain.

Factors that may contribute to vaginismus include:

• Anxiety disorders.
• Childbirth injuries, such as vaginal tears.
• Prior surgery.
• Fear of sex or negative feelings about sex, perhaps due to past sexual abuse, rape or trauma.

What are the symptoms of vaginismus?

Signs of vaginismus include:

• Discomfort or pain during vaginal penetration.
• Inability to have sex or have a pelvic exam due to vaginal muscle spasms or pain.
• Painful intercourse.

You should see a doctor if you have painful sex or pain while inserting a tampon. These feelings aren’t normal.

When should I call the doctor?

You should call your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Genital irritation or itching.
• Painful intercourse.
• Painful urination (dysuria).
• Unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
• Vaginal redness, soreness or swelling.

A note from Dubey Clinic

If you experience muscle spasms or pain that makes intercourse uncomfortable or impossible, don’t be embarrassed to talk to Dr. Sunil Dubey at Dubey Clinic. You don’t have to keep suffering. Many problems, including vaginismus, can cause painful intercourse. Almost all of these problems are treatable. A lot of people see significant improvements in their sex lives and their mental health after vaginismus treatments.