Vaginismus is the sexual disorder we don’t talk about.
It’s the involuntary or recurring spasming of the outer vagina during vaginal penetration or sexual intercourse. In layman’s terms, it makes sex and any form of vaginal penetration painful. The condition can interfere with pelvic exams, prevent women from using tampons and make sex feel impossible.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, three out of four women experience pain during sex at some point in their lives. Those that suffer from vaginismus experience consistent pain. Luckily, clitorial stimulation can allow these women to orgasm without pain and, with some extra effort, they may be able to discover enjoyment during vaginal sex.
Unfortunately, doctors have conducted minimal studies and treatment options for vaginismus are limited. But there are ways for women to regain comfort and even experience pleasure.
Vaginismus can be a personal, private issue for many women. Thankfully, most treatments can be administered alone and by oneself. The first suggested treatments for vaginismus are progressive desensitization and pelvic floor exercises.
Progressive desensitization is a systematic relaxation technique where a woman can use her own fingers or dilators to stretch and accustomate the vagina to penetration.
Pelvic floor exercises include a wide variety of at-home stretches that strengthen the muscles around the bladder and vagina. They allow a woman to gain control over her body and to become more familiar with her own anatomy. A large list of these exercises can be found here.
Sex therapy is the final option for women suffering from vaginismus. Therapy costs money and requires a level of vulnerability not everyone has, but for those who can afford it, therapy can offer a great outlet. Vaginismus has links to fear and anxiety, which causes the muscles to contract, so talk therapy can let clients explore their own inner feelings surrounding sex and penetration.
Vaginismus can be beaten and no one suffering from the condition is broken. Everyone comes with their own set of issues to work out. How ever a woman handles vaginismus is her business.