Vaginismus
Key points
- Vaginismus is an involuntary spasm of the muscles surrounding the vagina that closes the vagina.
- It is a complex condition with several possible causes that may result from past sexual trauma or abuse, other psychological factors, or a history of discomfort with sexual intercourse.
- Difficulty or inability to allow vaginal penetration for intercourse is the primary symptom.
- A gynecological examination can confirm the diagnosis of vaginismus.
Definition
Vaginismus is an involuntary spasm of the muscles surrounding the vagina that closes the vagina. This condition causes penetration to be difficult and painful, or even impossible.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Vaginismus is considered a sexual dysfunction. It is a complex condition with several possible causes that may result from past sexual trauma or abuse, other psychological factors, or a history of discomfort with sexual intercourse. Sometimes no cause can be determined.
Vaginismus is an uncommon condition, occurring in less than 2% of women in the US.
Women with varying degrees of vaginismus often develop anxiety regarding coitus and penetration, and intercourse is usually painful. However, this does not mean that they cannot achieve or sustain sexual arousal. Many are very sexually responsive and may have orgasms through clitoral stimulation. Women with vaginismus may seek sexual contact and sexual play as long as vaginal penetration is avoided.
Symptoms
Difficulty or inability to allow vaginal penetration for intercourse is the primary symptom. Vaginal pain with attempts at intercourse or during attempted pelvic exam is common.
Signs and tests
A gynecological examination can confirm the diagnosis of vaginismus. The health care provider will note whether there is an involuntary muscle contraction when fingers are inserted into the vagina, and this usually reproduces the pain the woman feels with intercourse.
A medical history and complete exam is important to rule out other causes of dyspareunia (pain with sexual intercourse).
Treatment
The treatment of choice with vaginismus is an extensive therapy program that combines education and counseling with behavioral exercises. Exercises include pelvic floor muscle contraction and relaxation (Kegel exercises) to improve voluntary control.
Vaginal dilation exercises are recommended using plastic dilators. This should be done under the direction of a sex therapist or other health care provider and treatment should involve the partner. This treatment should gradually include more intimate contact, ultimately resulting in intercourse.
Educational treatment, including information about sexual anatomy, physiology, the sexual response cycle, and common myths about sex, should be provided as well.
Expectations (prognosis)
When treated by a specialist in sex therapy, success rates are generally very high.
Complications
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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