What is Vaginismus? And Does it Lead to Infertility? 

If you experience pain during intercourse or while wearing a tampon, it could be due to various reasons. Such discomfort may be temporary. But if you continue to feel vaginal pain, it could be because of the involuntary tightening of muscles around the vagina. This condition is known as vaginismus.  

Vaginal pain can be stressful and may even affect your relationship with your partner. The good news is that the condition is treatable and there are various vaginismus treatment options, from Kegels exercises to CBT and vaginal dilation. Early vaginismus treatment can prevent complications and restore the joy in your relationship. Read on to learn about vaginismus, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. 

What Is Vaginismus? 

It is a condition in which the pelvic muscles around the vagina tighten. This tightening is not in your control. It is involuntary and subconscious. Such conditions tend to lead to a lot of anxiety. 

Symptoms of Vaginismus 

The symptoms of vaginismus may first appear in the late teen years while putting on a tampon or during early adulthood when you have sex for the first time. It is still unclear whether the condition develops due to anxiety associated with having intercourse or some infection.  

The symptoms of vaginismus often include: 

• Stinging or burning sensation and pain during penetration 

• Emotional distress, fear and anxiety associated with intercourse 

Types of Vaginismus  

Vaginismus is broadly classified into two types: 

Primary Vaginismus:

In this condition, fear and tight or tense vaginal muscles prevent women from experiencing normal penetration. This leads to painful vaginal penetration during medical exams or intercourse. 

Secondary Vaginismus:

In this condition, women who did not experience painful vaginal penetration earlier, develop vaginismus later in their lives. This often happens due to a triggering event, like infection, trauma or childbirth. 

Causes of Vaginismus 

Vaginismus can develop due to both psychological and physical causes.  

Psychological or emotional factors include: 

• Anxiety 

• Fear of pain 

• Relationship issues 

• Past abuse or other traumatic experiences 

• Religious or cultural beliefs about intercourse  

Physical factors usually include: 

• Vaginal dryness 

• Infections 

• Specific medical conditions  

• Past surgeries 

• Vaginal tears after giving birth 

Diagnosis of Vaginismus 

Diagnosing vaginismus involves: 

• A detailed review of your medical history: The doctor will ask about your sexual and medical background and symptoms.  

• A physical exam: The physician may perform a pelvic exam to assess muscle contractions and identify any underlying conditions causing the symptoms. A topical anaesthetic is often applied to the vulvar area during the exam. Vaginal lesions, vaginal infections, endometriosis or other conditions sometimes present with dyspareunia. They should be evaluated further and need targeted treatments.  

How Does Vaginismus Affect Fertility? 

Vaginismus does not directly affect fertility but can cause discomfort or pain during intercourse. This may lead to difficulty in conceiving. It is important for people experiencing fertility problems and vaginismus to consult a doctor for proper support and guidance. 

Vaginismus Treatment 

Vaginismus therapy typically focuses on lowering the reflex that triggers your muscles to tighten. This could be about target phobias and worries that contribute to this condition. 

After diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe one or more of the following vaginismus treatments: 

• Topical application: Compounded creams or topical lidocaine may lessen the discomfort caused by this condition.  

• Physical therapy: Certain exercises can help you relax and manage the muscles surrounding the vagina. This is called gradual desensitisation aimed at making penetration comfortable.  

First, the counsellor may encourage you to perform Kegel exercises and ask you to squeeze the muscles used to hold urine’s flow. The steps to perform are: 

• Keep the muscles compressed for 2-10 minutes. 

• Relax the muscles. 

• Practice 10 Kegels at a time and repeat at least thrice a day. 

• Vaginal dilators: They help make vaginal penetration more comfortable and painless. They are highly popular remedies for vaginismus. You can learn how to use them under expert supervision. The dilators are tube-shaped with different diameters, designed to help extend the vagina. They extend slowly, letting the vaginal muscles expand and get supple. An expert in this vaginismus therapy may recommend applying a topical numbing lotion to the outer part of the vagina to ease insertion.  

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: Anxiety related to sexual disorders is common. This therapy can help reduce trauma-related stress and anxiety associated with vaginismus. 

• Psychosexual counselling: In this kind of counselling, qualified sex therapists work with couples and single people to help them rediscover enjoying intercourse. 

Conclusion 

If you have vaginal pain or other symptoms of vaginismus, visit us right away. Signs that should not be ignored at all are: 

• Genital itching or irritation 

• Painful intercourse 

• Painful urination (dysuria) 

• An unusual vaginal discharge or odour not consistent with your regular cycle 

• Non-specific symptoms include vaginal swelling, soreness and redness. 

Our experts specialise in treating various conditions of reproductive health, including vaginismus. They can recommend you the most appropriate vaginismus treatment option based on your diagnosis. Visit your nearest Oasis Fertility Clinic to consult with our qualified specialists. You can also opt for live chat or call 1800-3001-1000 for prompt assistance. 

FAQs on Vaginismus 

Q: Can vaginismus be cured? 

A: Yes, vaginismus can be cured. With the right treatment, like physical therapy, vaginal dilators, or counselling, many people overcome it. The sooner you get help, the better, as early treatment can relieve symptoms and help you feel more comfortable. 

Q: Is vaginismus a lifelong condition? 

A: No, vaginismus doesn’t have to last forever. With proper treatment, the symptoms can improve or even go away completely. The focus is on helping the muscles around the vagina relax and working through any emotional challenges, allowing you to enjoy a normal, pain-free life. 

Q: Can I conceive if I have vaginismus? 

A: Yes, you can still conceive if you have vaginismus. While it might make intercourse uncomfortable, with the right treatment and support, many people with vaginismus successfully conceive. It’s best to talk to a doctor for advice and guidance specific to your situation.