All about vaginismus
Sexual intercourse is an integral part of a woman's life. However, 1% of women are unable to let themselves be penetrated: this is vaginismus. What are the causes and symptoms? What consequences can this have on a couple's life? What can be done about it?
How to recognize vaginismus?
Vaginismus is a psychological disorder of sexual behavior characterized by an involuntary and unconscious contraction of the muscles of the perineum. A woman becomes aware of her illness when she sees herself unable to experience penetration of the vagina during sexual intercourse or during a visit to her doctor. Vaginismus can be primary (the woman has never had penetrative sex) or secondary (the woman has had penetrative sex).
What causes vaginismus?
Vaginismus has many causes. However, the following factors can be cited as causing vaginismus:
- Menopause;
- Vaginal deformity;
- Vaginal infection;
- A history of painful vaginal penetration or fear of ;
- Traumatic experience: rape, sexual abuse, invasive medical examinations;
- Strict education about sex.
What are the consequences of vaginismus?
A woman with vaginismus, especially if she is already in a relationship, will not be able to have a fulfilling sex life. Because of the contractions, she will not be able to have sexual intercourse and therefore will not be able to conceive. Be careful not to force penetration; the more penetration is forced, the greater the pain and the more the vaginismus will be reinforced.
What are the solutions for vaginismus?
In case of vaginismus, the ideal is to consult a sex therapist or a sexologist. The latter will identify the causes of the pathology in order to propose a solution. The woman can learn to relax the muscles of her vagina through body therapy, mental therapy through hypnosis or cognitive behavioral therapy. Yoni eggs can also be used to tone the perineum.