Vaginismus: Painful Sexual Intercourse

Vaginismus is a common sexual problem that affects many women. The condition is classified by the involuntary contraction of the vagina muscles. Because of this condition, many women have difficulty having sex because of the inability of their partner to penetrate their vagina. Excessive pain is also a symptom of vaginismus. There are two types of vaginismus: primary and secondary vaginismus.

Primary vaginismus occurs when a women experiences pain or penetration problems beginning with their first sexual experience. On the other hand, secondary vaginismus involves discomfort that develops after years of pain-free sex.

Primary vaginismus is best described as:

� Burning pain associated following penetration
� Inability to consummate a relationship
� Inability to complete a pelvic exam or insert a tampon

Secondary vaginismus may develop after:

� Birth of a child
� Trauma (rape or sexual abuse)
� Menopause
� Medical conditions (endometriosis, vaginal dryness, pelvic inflammatory disease, cysts, etc.)

Diagnosing Vaginismus

A gynecological examination is necessary to confirm the diagnosis of vaginismus. The physical exam may be slightly uncomfortable. To begin, your health care provider will perhaps check the vagina for involuntary contractions. This is done by inserting two fingers into the vagina. If this produces pain, the odds of vaginismus are high.

Nonethless, physicians will also evaluate medical history and preform a completed examination to rule out other conditions that cause painful sexual intercourse.

Treating Vaginismus

Because most cases of vaginismus are physical responses to psychological issues, treatment of this condition may require extensive therapy. For example, some women are apprehensive about sexual intercourse due to fear of penetration, pain, or anxiety about becoming pregnant. For this matter, it is common for women in this group to experience involuntary muscle contractions. Moreover, women who have experienced previous pain or trauma in this region may also develop vaginismus.

Fortunately, it is possible to overcome vaginismus. Treatment consists of varying relaxation techniques. The goal of therapy is to curtail any fears associated with sexual intercourse.