Vaginismus

Vaginismus is when the vagina suddenly tightens up just as you try to insert something into it. It can be painful and distressing, but it can be treated.

What is vaginismus?

Vaginismus is the body's automatic reaction to the fear of some or all types of vaginal penetration.

Whenever penetration is attempted, your vaginal muscles tighten up on their own.

You have no control over it.

Occasionally, you can get vaginismus even if you have previously enjoyed painless penetrative sex.

Vaginismus doesn't necessarily affect your ability to get aroused and enjoy other types of sexual contact.

See a GP or go to a sexual health clinic if:

• you find it hard inserting a tampon into your vagina
• you struggle with vaginal penetration during sex
• you feel burning or stinging pain during sex

These are common signs of vaginismus.

Treatment for vaginismus

Treatment usually focuses on:

• managing your feelings around penetration
• exercises to gradually get you used to penetration

Treatment is initially done under the guidance of specialised therapists. You'll then usually be expected to practise some of the exercises at home.

If you're in a relationship, you can choose to involve your partner.

Treatment is usually effective and you may see progress in a matter of weeks.

Causes of vaginismus

Often there's no obvious explanation, but some things thought to cause vaginismus include:

• fear that your vagina is too small
• a bad first sexual experience
• an unpleasant medical examination
• a belief that sex is shameful or wrong
• a painful medical condition, like thrush