Vaginismus is a female sexual disorder characterized by involuntary and persistent contraction of the muscles surrounding the vagina, making penetration painful or even impossible. This disorder affects between 5 and 17% of women and can have physical, emotional, and relational implications. It is important to understand its causes, symptoms, and available treatment approaches.
Many people report the sensation of a wall, of very strong tension, of the vulva, the vagina and sometimes the whole body.
Vaginismus can take several forms: it can occur at the beginning of sexual activity or later. It can be total or partial, which means that some penetrations remain possible, depending on the situation.
Causes of vaginismus
The causes of vaginismus can be varied and include physical, emotional, and psychological factors. Understanding the underlying causes of this phenomenon is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. Let's take a closer look at the factors that can contribute to the development of vaginismus.
Psychological Factors
Stress, anxiety, and sexual trauma are often cited as the main psychological causes of vaginismus. Previous negative sexual experiences, whether sexual abuse, coercion, or simply repressive sex education, can create negative associations with penetration, triggering involuntary muscular responses.
Fear of pain during intercourse can also play a significant role. Negative expectations related to sexuality, often rooted in cultural or family beliefs, can contribute to the manifestation of vaginismus.
Physical Factors
Although vaginismus is primarily a psychological disorder, certain physical factors can also play a role. Gynecological infections, post-surgical scarring, hormonal disorders, or medical conditions such as vestibulodynia can cause vaginal pain, triggering reflex muscle spasms.
Sex education
Insufficient or inadequate sex education can also contribute to the development of vaginismus. Women who have little information about sexuality or who were raised in environments where sexuality is taboo may develop inhibitions and apprehensions that manifest physically.
How does vaginismus manifest?
Symptoms of vaginismus can vary in intensity. Women with this disorder may experience severe pain or discomfort when attempting vaginal penetration. Involuntary muscle spasms can make it difficult or impossible to insert tampons, medical instruments, or even a finger.
Difficulty or impossibility of penetration
The main characteristic of vaginismus is difficulty inserting anything into the vagina, whether it is a penis, tampon, finger, or any other object.
Pain during intercourse
Women with vaginismus may experience severe pain when attempting intercourse. This pain is often described as a burning sensation.
Involuntary muscle contractions
Involuntary muscle spasms occur around the vagina, creating resistance to penetration. These contractions can be difficult to consciously control.
Anxiety and sexual apprehension
Women with vaginismus may experience intense anxiety, fear, or apprehension about having sex. These emotions can contribute to the cycle of vaginismus.
Additionally, due to the associated pain and anxiety, women with vaginismus may avoid sexual activity altogether. This can lead to relationship problems and a reduced quality of life. Intimate relationships can become strained, and emotional distress can be significant. It is crucial that partners are understanding and seek mutual support to cope with this challenge.
Difficulty using tampons or medical instruments
Even inserting tampons or medical instruments, such as gynecological specula, can be extremely difficult or even impossible.
Generalized pelvic tension
Aside from attempts at penetration, some women with vaginismus may experience generalized pelvic tension, even in non-sexual situations.
How to manage vaginismus?
Medical consultation
If a woman suspects she is suffering from vaginismus, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional, such as a gynecologist. A thorough medical examination can help rule out other underlying medical problems and determine the cause of vaginismus.
Therapeutic approaches
Treatment for vaginismus may include a multidisciplinary approach. Sex therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and physical therapy may be recommended. CBT aims to identify and change negative thought patterns associated with sex, while physical therapy can help release muscle tension through specific exercises and techniques.
Here are the most frequently used therapeutic approaches to treat primary vaginismus:
- Use of local injections of botulinum toxin or hyaluronic acid for temporary treatment purposes.
- Administration of drug treatments with temporary effects, such as painkillers, muscle relaxants or antidepressants.
- Muscle rehabilitation using vaginal dilators.
- Consultation with a sexologist to benefit from sex therapy.
- Reconstructive surgery in case of uterine malformation.
- Exercises aimed at strengthening the pelvic floor.
- Use of antifungals for yeast infections and antibiotics or antivirals when needed.
- Use of vaginal lubricants to facilitate sexual intercourse.
- Hormonal treatment based on estrogen, in different forms.
- Taking probiotics to restore the balance of vaginal flora.
Conclusion
Vaginismus is a complex sexual disorder that can have significant physical, emotional, and relational repercussions. Managing vaginismus often requires a holistic approach, combining medical, psychological, and physical interventions. Awareness and education are also essential to create a supportive environment and help promote better understanding and encourage the search for appropriate solutions.
If you think you may be affected by vaginismus, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate assessment and support.
FAQ:
What is dyspareunia?
Dyspareunia is pain during or after intercourse, caused by many factors. Vaginismus, on the other hand, is characterized by involuntary spasms of the vaginal muscles, making penetration painful or impossible, often related to emotional or psychological factors. Dyspareunia refers to pain associated with intercourse, while vaginismus prevents penetration due to muscle contractions.