Lets Talk About Vaginismus

Due to the embarrassment many people feel around talking about vaginas and vulvas and genitals in general it is difficult to say how many people are affected by vaginismus, the rough estimate is 2 in every 1000.  

Vaginal pain can be tied to shame and isolation, and this can be major factor that stops people seeking help. Vaginismus can affect your sex life, relationships, your mental health, increase anxiety, and it may be more challenging to become pregnant. Also research has often focused on cis gender women causing trans masculine people difficulties in seeking out the help and support they need.

“you are not broken and you can get help” – Guilty Feminist.

So what is Vaginismus?

Involuntary tightening of the muscles around the vagina wherever penetration is tried.

Vaginismus can happen when:

• a partner attempts penetration – (any type of penetration)
• when something is inserted for example a tampon
• where something is put near the vaginal area
• smear tests

Some causes can include but not exclusively:

• anxiety disorders and other emotional factors
• fear of sex or negative feelings about sex perhaps due to past sexual abuse or rape
• past painful penetrations during intimate relationships
• childbirth injuries or traumatic childbirth experiences

Doctors diagnose vaginismus through exam and taking a sexual history which can be very problematic due to the causes as described above so we can see why many are put off reaching out for support.  

Many specialists’ sexual health clinics are in a better position to offer help and support with vaginismus, ensuring people feel supported and are as relaxed as they can be when undergoing an internal examination.  It can help to go to a specialist, the skilled nurses and doctors often have different methods than your GP and are experienced in taking sexual histories.  A visit to the sexual health clinic can also be anonymous.

The Outlook is Good

There are wide range of treatments available these can include:

• managing feelings around penetration
• psychosexual therapy
• CBT therapy – helps to understand your thoughts and how this effects your emotions and behaviours
• relaxation techniques (mindfulness)
• pelvic floor exercises
• sensations focusing
• vaginal dilators
• exercises to gradually get used to penetration (if that is something you are looking for there are many ways people enjoy a very satisfying intimate relationship without penetration.)

People with Vaginismus can feel out of control of their bodies and unsure how to connect the mind and body back together. Healing can be a slow and steady process, so it is important to remember you are not broken or damaged. If you can access vaginismus treatment with kind and understanding people in a supportive non-judgemental environment, then the outlook is good.