You might have experienced some symptoms of vaginismus and are looking for all the answers to your questions. Education and knowledge are highly effective tools for women who wish to maintain the best possible reproductive health. So, here are the most common FAQs about vaginismus.
What is vaginismus?
Vaginismus is the tightening of vaginal muscles, which prevents penetration and interferes with sexual intercourse. It can manifest regardless of prior sexual experience. For some, even inserting a menstrual cup/tampon or having a pelvic exam can be painful. Vaginismus relates to a high level of distress for those affected, and it can have a substantial physical and mental impact.
Are there different types of vaginismus?
There are chiefly two types of vaginismus:
1. Primary: If one is unable to insert anything into the vagina or experiences pain every time something gets inserted, like during penetrative sex or even a pelvic exam.
2. Secondary: If one has enjoyed pain-free intercourse or penetration in the past but now experiences discomfort/pain and tightness.
Radiation, surgery, childbirth, yeast infections, or hormonal changes during menopause lead to the thinning of vaginal walls. This further results in secondary vaginismus. It can also be situational, which might allow some types of penetration (like inserting a tampon) but not others (sex). If penetration of any sort is impossible, then it is known as global vaginismus.
What causes vaginismus?
Currently, the exact cause of vaginismus is unknown. However, researchers suggest a combination of psychological and physical factors, traumatic experiences, cultural influencers, and fear of penetrative sex might result in an automatic response from the body.
Is vaginismus curable?
Vaginismus is a highly curable condition, even if it gets detected later in life. The primary treatment for vaginismus focuses on gradually reducing the tightening of the vaginal muscles and removing the fear of worry and pain.
How common is vaginismus?
Given the social stigma connected with egg freezing and sex, vaginismus remains a widely underreported and underdiagnosed condition. Hence, the exact number is challenging to pinpoint.
How is vaginismus diagnosed?
Your doctor performs a pelvic test and takes your sexual and medical history into account. They might also ask if you have experienced any sexual trauma or abuse. A proper evaluation and diagnosis help differentiate if you are suffering from vaginismus or dyspareunia and help with inappropriate management.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms might vary among individuals. Common diagnostics include:
- Inability to have penetrative sex
- Painful sex (mild or severe) accompanied by tightness and a stinging/burning sensation.
- Experiencing pain when attempting tampon insertion or gynaecological examination without cause
- Muscle spasm during intercourse
Conclusion
Vaginismus is a personal and intimate issue that might be difficult to discuss. However, there is no shame about the same. Suppose you are experiencing any symptoms of vaginismus, consult an experienced healthcare professional to get all the answers and solutions to your concerns.
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