What is Vaginismus?
Vaginismus is the involuntary tensing or contracting of the muscles around the vagina. These spasms occur when something attempts to penetrate the vagina such as a tampon, finger, penis, or medical instrument and can be mildly uncomfortable or very painful.
The symptoms of vaginismus may begin when an individual has sex for the first time, the first time a person tries to insert a tampon, or during a pelvic exam at a doctor’s office. Some people may also develop this condition later on in life and can occur after years of having no problems.
Common symptoms of vaginismus include:
- Pain or discomfort during vaginal penetration
- Painful intercourse
- Inability to have a pelvic exam or sex due to vaginal muscle spasms or pain
There are a number of factors that may contribute to vaginismus, including anxiety disorders, prior surgery, childbirth injuries like vaginal tears, or negative feelings about sex.
Vaginismus Treatment Options
The goal of vaginismus treatment is to reduce the reflex of the muscles that cause them to tense up. Treatments may also address fears or anxieties that may lead to vaginismus.
Topical Therapy
Topical treatments such as topical lidocaine or compounded creams may help to ease the pain associated with vaginismus.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
During this treatment, a physical therapist will teach individuals how to relax their pelvic floor muscles.