What Is Vaginismus?

The topic of women's health is something many individuals feel uncomfortable discussing, and unfortunately, this lack of recognition can leave many women suffering. Though there is little awareness about it, vaginismus is a condition affecting thousands of women. This frequently misunderstood condition can be extremely disruptive, and unfortunately, treatment is not always straightforward. Many doctors still are not sure whether it is caused by mental concerns or medical problems. It is essential to raise awareness about vaginismus, so women with the condition can get diagnosed and learn methods for dealing with it. Without treatment, vaginismus can cause a lifetime of discomfort and even result in infertility.

What Is It Exactly?

At its most basic level, vaginismus is simply a sensation of pain and tightness whenever anything enters the vagina. When we get farther into the definition, it turns out vaginismus is an involuntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles. Vaginismus typically affects the pubococcygeus muscle group, but it can occur in other types of muscles in the area. In the average woman, these muscles can tighten, but they instinctively relax in most situations that require access to the vagina. For women who have vaginismus, these muscles clamp tightly together whenever anything is about to enter the vagina. Women with vaginismus may not be able to have sex, use tampons, or undergo a gynecological exam.

So what are the symptoms? Keep reading to find out.