Vaginismus - meaning and definition
Alsovaginal tightnessinvoluntary vaginal muscle spasm
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
Vaginismus is an involuntary tightening of the muscles around the vagina when something is about to enter it, making penetration of any kind painful or impossible.
At a glance
- Vaginismus is an involuntary tightening of the muscles around the vagina.
- It can make tampons, cervical screening or penetrative sex painful or impossible.
- The reaction is automatic, not something a person chooses.
- Causes can include fear of pain, past painful experiences, anxiety or physical conditions.
- It is treatable, often with education, physiotherapy, vaginal trainers and psychosexual therapy.
In detail
The body reacts automatically, so it is not something a person is choosing to do. It can make using tampons, having a cervical screening test, or penetrative sex difficult. Causes can include fear of pain, past painful or traumatic experiences, anxiety, or physical conditions, though sometimes there is no clear trigger.
Vaginismus is treatable. Approaches often combine education, pelvic floor physiotherapy, gradual use of vaginal trainers, and psychosexual therapy. Partners can support recovery by removing pressure and focusing on other forms of intimacy.
In a sentence
- She was diagnosed with vaginismus after struggling for years to use tampons.
- The nurse offered extra time and a smaller speculum because of her vaginismus.
Where the word comes from
Formed from vagina with the medical suffix -ismus, used for spasms. The term has been used in medicine since the 19th century.
Not to be confused with
- Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia is persistent pain in the vulva, which may occur even without touch.
Common questions
Is vaginismus all in the mind?
No. The muscle reaction is real and automatic, not something a person chooses. Emotional factors such as fear or past experiences can play a part, but so can physical conditions, and sometimes there is no clear trigger.
Can vaginismus be treated?
Yes. Treatment often combines education, pelvic floor physiotherapy, gradual use of vaginal trainers and psychosexual therapy. A doctor or sexual health clinic can refer you to the right support.