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Vaginismus - Vaginismus Symptom, Cause, Treatment
Vaginismus occurs when the vagina is unable to relax and permit the penetration of the penis during intercourse however, when vaginismus does occur, the sphincter goes into spasm resulting in the tightening of the vagina. With some women, vaginismus prevents all attempts at successful intercourse.
It is my opinion in speaking with over 350 women that Vaginismus can initially be brought on by either the physical or psychological aspects. However, regardless of which came first Vaginismus causes problems in both areas for every women that I have spoken.
Vaginismus is not uncommon and may occur later in life, even if a woman has a history of enjoyable and painless intercourse.
Most women who suffer from vaginismus do not realise they have it until they try to insert a tampon or have sex for the first time and so it may come as quite a shock to them.
- The woman repeatedly has spasms of the vaginal muscles that interfere with sexual intercourse.
- It causes marked distress or interpersonal problems.
- Except for another Sexual Dysfunction, no other Axis I disorder (such as Somatization Disorder) accounts for it better.
- It is not directly caused solely by a general medical condition.
Cause of Vaginismus
Vaginismus may not only result from past sexual trauma but also the patient having strong inhibitions about sex stemming from strict religious orthodoxy or cultural norms.
The cause of vaginismus is often a result of an aversive stimulus associated with penetration. Some of the more common aversive stimuli are traumatic sexual assaults, painful intercourse, and traumatic pelvic exam.
Vaginismus can be compared to the response of the eye shutting when an object comes towards it. A woman with vaginismus learns to expect pain to come with penetration and so her mind automatically sends a signal to her PC muscles to clamp shut, thus making penetration either impossible or very painful.
Treatment Methods of Vaginismus
- Dilation exercises with fingers or dilators
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Changing attitudes or preconceived ideas of sexuality &/or nudity
- Proper diagnosis
- Working with a physician who specializes in vulvar disorders
- Finding a supportive counselor or psychotherapist
- Relaxation techniques such as meditation & yoga
- Hypnotherapy
- Use of medications both topical & by mouth
- Proper lubrication - natural or artificial
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