Vaginismus
 

Vaginismus is the spasming or tightening of muscles in the band of muscles that surround the entrance of the vagina.  It makes sex painful and, in many cases, prevents insertion of anything in the vagina.  Some women cannot insert a tampon or even their finger.  Vaginismus is a psychosomatic reaction.  That means it starts in the mind and results in a tightness in the body that is unwanted and not intentional.  The muscles surrounding the vagina (and sometime muscles in the legs, buttocks, and back) tighten when the thought of intercourse or penetration of the vagina enters the mind.

Primary vaginismus is the term used when a woman has never been able to have intercourse.  It most is the result when the woman has grown up in an environment that had negative messages about sex.  These messages are usually extreme in nature and may be about how painful intercourse will, how sinful intercourse is, etc.  Sometimes unpleasant sexual exploitation during early child may be the source.

The anticipation of pain, shame, etc. results in a reflexive spasm of the vaginal muscles and the tight opening may make penetration impossible or very painful.  This pain and the associated psychological distress reinforces the fear and sets up a cycle that can continue throughout the woman's life.  The anticipation and fear of the pain may cause avoidance of pelvic examinations, the use tampons and anything else that would call for penetration of the vagina.

Having vaginismus often does not block the desire to be sexual or enjoy mutual physical pleasure.  It is not uncommon for women with primary vaginismus to enjoy non-coital forms of sexual pleasure and often achieve orgasm as long as the stimulation avoids the area around the vaginal opening and there is no threat or attempt of intercourse.  

Secondary vaginismus is when these involuntary spasms or tightening the muscles surrounding the vaginal opening start after there has been a history of comfortable intercourse.  It usually starts after a period of painful intercourse, caused by another condition such as endometriosis, vaginal dryness, difficult delivery of a baby, etc. 

The success rate in overcoming vaginismus is high.  It can be treated successfully in individual therapy with a single woman in the privacy of her home.  When the woman is in a committed relationship her partner is included in the office sessions so they can participate in the treatment process.  This is not a condition that has to be lived with and can be overcome.  For more information contact me at earllcsw@e-sextherapy.com.