Difficulty inserting tampons?
Pain with vaginal examinations?
Difficulty with penetrative sex?
… you may have vaginismus
What is Vaginismus?
Vaginismus is a condition where the muscles of the pelvic floor involuntarily contract or spasm during attempts at penetration. As a result, vaginal penetration can be extremely painful or even impossible. The condition varies in severity; for some, it might cause discomfort or tightness, while for others, it can be so severe that penetration isn’t achievable.
How Does Vaginismus Present?
Vaginismus causes pain during attempted vaginal penetration. The severity of the pain can range from a feeling of tightness to intense, sharp pain.
- Painful intercourse: Even if penetration is possible, it can be uncomfortable or painful.
- Difficulty with tampon insertion: People may struggle to insert tampons or may avoid using them altogether due to fear of pain.
- Pelvic floor muscle tightness: For some, the pelvic floor muscles may feel tense or tight, even outside of sexual activity. This can lead to shortening of the muscles.
- Anxiety or fear related to sexual activity: Anticipation of pain can lead to tightening of the pelvic floor muscles, contributing to ongoing problems. For others, it may lead to avoidance of intimacy, which can affect relationships.
Vaginismus can affect people of all ages, whether they are sexually active or not.
How Can Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Help?
Pelvic health physiotherapy is one of the most effective, evidence based and holistic approaches to treating vaginismus.
👉Pelvic Floor Muscle Relaxation and Training
With vaginismus, the pelvic floor muscles are often tight and overactive. A key component of pelvic health physiotherapy is teaching patients how to relax and control these muscles. Physiotherapists use techniques such as biofeedback, manual therapy, and pelvic floor relaxation exercises to help reduce tension and improve muscle coordination. Learning how to relax the pelvic floor muscles can significantly reduce the discomfort or pain associated with penetration.
👉Education and Awareness
Many people with vaginismus are not fully aware of their pelvic floor muscles or how they function. Education is an important part of treatment. This includes teaching about the anatomy of the pelvic floor, the mechanics of sexual activity, and how tension in the pelvic floor muscles can cause pain. A specially trained pelvic health physiotherapist can guide individuals through this learning process, providing helpful tips to ease anxiety and make intimate experiences more comfortable.
👉Desensitisation Techniques / Dilator use
Desensitisation is a common technique used in pelvic health physiotherapy to gradually reduce the pain and anxiety associated with penetration. We may recommend progressive exposure to the vaginal area with the use of dilators. This involves starting with a smaller, more comfortable size. The size is gradually increased as the pelvic floor muscles become more relaxed and comfortable with the sensation of penetration. The goal is to reduce the body’s fear response over time, as well as to stretch tightened tissues.
👉Addressing the Emotional and Psychological Aspects
Vaginismus often has psychological components. Pelvic health physiotherapists are trained to address the emotional and mental aspects of the condition. They may refer individuals to a psychologist or counsellor if needed, to work through any trauma, anxiety, or negative associations related to sex.
👉Improving Body Awareness
Pelvic health physiotherapists also teach techniques for improving overall body relaxation. By using relaxation exercises, breathing techniques, and mindful movement, physiotherapy can help patients regain confidence in their bodies and reduce anxiety related to intimacy.
The Road to Recovery
Vaginismus can feel like an overwhelming condition, but with the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage and overcome it. If you’re experiencing symptoms of vaginismus, seeking help from a qualified pelvic health physiotherapist can be a significant first step toward recovery. There is no need to suffer in silence – help is available, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
For further information on what to expect at our Pelvic Health Physiotherapy appointment – click here
For another great resource on vaginismus – click here