Vaginismus

Definition

Vaginismus is an uncontrollable and painful spasm of the muscles that surround the vagina. It happens when something is about to be put into the vagina, like a tampon, penis, or medical device.

Vagina.

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Causes

Vaginismus is often a response to past sexual trauma or other painful events. In some women, the cause is not clear.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:

• A history of sexual trauma
• A history of painful events, such as infection, surgery, or childbirth
• Fear or lack of interest in sex
• Painful first intercourse
• Relationship problems

Symptoms

The main problem is not being able to have sex without pain. Some women may also have pain during pelvic exams or when inserting a tampon.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical and pelvic exam will be done. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.

Treatment

The cause will need to be treated. The goal is to ease spasms. Choices are:

• Learning about sex organs and how they work
• Mental health counseling to learn how to challenge negative thoughts
• Vaginal dilation exercises that use a woman's fingers or plastic dilators to stretch the vagina
• Kegel exercises to improve control over the vaginal muscles

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent vaginismus.