Vaginismus is the involuntary contraction of the muscles of the woman’s pelvic floor, which does not allow vaginal penetration during intimate contact or penetration of other objects, such as a tampon or vaginal speculum used by the gynecologist during routine examinations.
This change can occur at any stage of a woman’s sex life and may have physical or psychological causes, such as fear of becoming pregnant, sexual abuse, urinary tract diseases or hemorrhoids, for example. Despite several causes, vaginismus can be easily treated, it is important that the gynecologist does so and, in some cases, with the help of a psychologist.
- There are 2 types of vaginismus.
- The primary.
- In which the woman has never undergone penetration.
- Either through gynecological examinations.
- The use of intimate compresses or intimate contact.
- And the secondary.
- Which is triggered by traumatic events.
- Such as sexual abuse.
- Childbirth.
- Surgery.
- Menopause.
- For example.
The symptoms of vaginismus are easy to perceive and there is mainly a difficulty or impossibility of penetration. However, other symptoms may occur, such as pain during intimate contact, contractions or burns in the vagina, and discomfort during gynecological examinations or tampon insertion.
Vaginismus symptoms can also vary from woman to woman depending on the cause, it is important that the diagnosis of vaginismus is made by the family doctor or gynecologist so that treatment can be established correctly and symptoms can be evaluated.
Vaginismus can have physical but also psychological causes, such as the memory of painful sex in the past, the fear of becoming pregnant or being controlled by men.
Other causes of vaginismus include
It is important to note that the contraction of the muscles of the vagina is involuntary and that the woman is not responsible for this contraction, also bringing their dissatisfaction.
If a woman struggles during penetration, it is important to consult a doctor as there are several strategies that can help solve the problem and allow her to have a healthy and enjoyable sex life. Scheduling an appointment with a gynecologist is the first step, as you should find out if there is a condition that causes this difficulty.
When it is clear that the causes are psychological, it is essential to perform treatment with a psychologist or psychiatrist to deal with emotions and cure trauma, if necessary. It is important that the partner is also evaluated by the doctor because situations such as sexual impotence and premature ejaculation also favor vaginismus and can be resolved.
Treatment of vaginismus should be done according to the cause and may include the use of anxiolytics, anesthetics in the form of ointment, in addition to the use of vaginal vasodilators.
This can also be done with the use of vaginal dilation techniques in association with Kegel exercises, which are exercises that work the female intimate region, to allow penetration. At first, the woman should know her intimate anatomy and perform Kegel exercises, and thus achieve the penetration of small objects such as a cotton swab for example. Learn how to do Kegel exercises.
Treatment of vaginismus should be guided by a gynecologist and the help of a physiotherapist specializing in women’s health contributes to better results. Psychological counseling, along with cognitive and behavioral psychotherapy techniques, can facilitate, speed up the process and reduce anxiety, so it’s also indicated.