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Vaginismus is a common condition in women where the pubococcygeus muscle contracts painfully during intercourse or inserting a foreign body. It can be treated with a combination of exercises, education, and therapy, but can be detrimental to self-esteem and relationships if left untreated. There are two types of vaginismus, and it often has a psychological component. Treatment includes dilators and Kegel exercises, and it’s important to seek medical attention if sex is painful or penetration is impossible.
Vaginismus is a relatively common health problem seen in women. The condition consists of often painful contractions of the pubococcygeus muscle (PC muscle) when attempting intercourse or inserting a foreign body, such as a tampon. While frequently treatable, vaginismus can be difficult in relationships and even detrimental to self-esteem. Many women’s health experts recommend visiting a doctor or sex therapist for an official diagnosis and treatment options.
Symptoms of the condition typically occur when penetration is attempted. Involuntarily, the PC muscles shorten or tighten, making it difficult or impossible for a foreign body to enter the vagina. If penetration is achieved, the forced opening of the muscles is usually extremely painful for the woman.
There are two main types of vaginismus seen regularly in adult women. Primary vaginismus typically begins at the point of sexual maturity, continuing throughout the patient’s life until successfully treated. Secondary vaginismus usually begins after a medically traumatic event affecting the vagina or reproductive system, such as labor, rape, or even menopause.
Frequently, there is a psychological component to the existence of vaginismus. The brain perceives penetration as a threat on some level, so it sends the message to the PC muscles to keep the danger out. Vaginismus is common in women who have had traumatic experiences such as rape or physical and sexual abuse. Counseling and therapy are often part of treatment programs for women with this condition.
Treatment is often a combination of exercises, education, and therapy. In addition to getting to the root of the sexual fears that may trigger the response, sex therapists often work with a couple to create an environment where the woman feels safe, comfortable, and relaxed. Women may also be asked to perform Kegel exercises to tone and gain control of the vaginal muscles.
Some treatments include the use of dilators to help the vagina get used to the relaxation. These are plastic inserts that increase in size and width, allowing the woman to essentially train the vagina to open without muscle contractions. Sex therapists also sometimes suggest that a sexual partner should be included in these exercises so that the psyche can associate a safe environment with the partner.
Despite a high treatment success rate, many women live with vaginismus for years, often out of shame or embarrassment. Ignoring the condition can not only lead to an unsatisfying sex life but can also lead to injury if muscles are torn through forcible penetration. Many health experts recommend seeing a doctor right away if sex is painful or penetration is impossible.
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