What is Vaginismus and How is it Treated?

Vaginismus is a condition in women in which the involuntary contraction of the vaginal muscles during sexual intercourse becomes painful or impossible. This condition can be caused by psychological or physiological reasons and can negatively affect the sexual life of many women. Vaginismus manifests itself with symptoms such as inability to have sexual intercourse and feeling intense pain during sexual intercourse. However, vaginismus is a treatable condition and women can lead a healthy sexual life with the right approaches.

Vaginismus Symptoms

Symptoms of vaginismus are usually sexual intercourse but some women may also experience similar symptoms when trying to use a tampon or during a gynecological examination. The most common symptoms of vaginismus are:

• Inability to have sexual intercourse: Sexual intercourse is not possible due to involuntary contraction of the muscles at the entrance to the vagina.
• Intense pain Intense pain is felt during or attempted sexual intercourse. This pain is caused by the contraction of the vaginal muscles.
• Difficulty with gynecological examination: Women with vaginismus may experience similar contractions and pain during a gynecological examination.
• Inability to use tampons: Vaginismus can also cause difficulty in attempting to insert a tampon.

These symptoms may differ depending on the degree of vaginismus. Some women are completely unable to have sexual intercourse, while others may only experience pain in certain positions.

Causes of Vaginismus

The causes of vaginismus are usually based on psychological or physiological factors. Psychological causes may include negative experiences, fears, traumas and false beliefs about sexuality. Sexual harassment, violence or traumatic experiences, especially during childhood or adolescence, may be at the root of vaginismus. In addition, women who grow up in a strict and oppressive family structure on sexuality are also at risk of developing vaginismus.

Physiological causes can be caused by vaginal infections, hormonal imbalances, weakness or excessive tension in the pelvic floor muscles. In addition, hypersensitivity in the nerves around the vagina can also lead to vaginismus.

How is Vaginismus Treated?

Vaginismus treatment varies according to the condition of the individual and the degree of vaginismus. The most important point in the treatment process is to determine whether the problem is physical or psychological. The main methods used in the treatment of vaginismus are as follows:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

In cases of vaginismus of psychological origin, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a very effective treatment method. This type of therapy works to change the person's negative thoughts and fears about sexuality. During the therapy process, the individual confronts his/her anxieties about sexuality and learns to manage these anxieties. In addition, healthy communication with the partner and relaxation techniques in sexual intercourse are emphasized.

2. Pelvic Floor Exercises

Exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles play an important role in the treatment of vaginismus. These exercises provide control of the vaginal muscles and help reduce contractions. Kegel exercises are a widely used technique to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. When done regularly, these exercises strengthen the muscles and allow for a more comfortable experience during sexual intercourse.

3. Vaginal Dilators

Another method used in the treatment of vaginismus is vaginal dilators. These dilators help to relax the vaginal muscles and reduce contractions. In the treatment process, starting with small-sized dilators, larger sizes are used over time. Vaginal dilators can be more effective when used in combination with pelvic floor exercises.

4. Sexual Therapy

Sexual therapy is another method commonly used in the treatment of vaginismus. Sexual therapists work on the individual's fears and concerns about sexuality, helping them to lead a healthier sexual life. Communication with the partner is also important in sexual therapy. Couples can learn various techniques with the guidance of the therapist to feel more comfortable in their sexual life and overcome vaginismus.

5. Medication Therapy

In some cases, medication can also be used to treat vaginismus. In particular, muscle relaxants to help relax the vaginal muscles or antidepressants to relieve anxiety disorders may be recommended. However, medication is usually combined with other treatment methods and should be done under the supervision of a doctor.

Vaginismus Treatment at Home: Is it Possible?

Vaginismus treatment is a process that requires professional help, but some exercises and techniques that can be done at home can also contribute to treatment. Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, the use of vaginal dilators and relaxation techniques are methods that can be used in the treatment of vaginismus at home. However, it is important to get support from a specialist for these methods to be effective.

Women who want to try vaginismus treatment at home can do exercises to relax the pelvic floor muscles and practice relaxation techniques before sexual intercourse. It is important to be patient in this process and to progress the treatment gradually. If it is difficult to overcome vaginismus, the best approach is to consult a specialist.

Overcoming Vaginismus: The Healing Process

Vaginismus treatment is a time-consuming process, but it can be overcome with the right treatment methods and professional support. Partner support is also of great importance during the treatment process. Women experiencing vaginismus should give themselves time and patiently continue the treatment process to achieve relief in their sexual life.

As a result, vaginismus is a treatable condition and many women can have a healthy sexual life after treatment. In this process, getting professional support and using appropriate treatment methods are the most important steps towards recovery.