Severe pain during sex? Is it Vaginismus?

Have you ever experienced a stinging sensation or agonising pain when attempting vaginal penetration? This condition is known as vaginismus. It is caused by the involuntary constriction of vaginal muscles whenever penetration is attempted. Although no conclusive cause has been discovered, it has been connected to a history of sexual abuse, anxiety, past painful sexual intercourse. It has also been observed after menopause. So when does this occur? An episode of vaginismus may occur whenever vaginal penetration is attempted, such as when inserting a tampon or a menstrual cup, or when you are touched near the vagina.

Vaginismus is the body's instinctive response to the fear of any sort of vaginal penetration. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms as well as your clinical and sexual histories. They'll perform a pelvic check to rule out any other health issues that might be causing pain. You may require therapy before you are capable of enduring the exam. Women experiencing vaginismus can learn to regulate and relax the muscles surrounding their vagina by doing exercises at home. The objective is to become accustomed to insertion through a process termed as progressive desensitisation.

Vaginismus therapies aim to reduce the muscular response that causes them to tighten. Anxieties or concerns that lead to vaginismus are also addressed in treatments. It might include: 

• Pelvic floor exercises: Pelvic floor exercises will be taught to you by a physical therapist.
• Vaginal dilator therapy: Vaginal dilators are tubular devices that come in a variety of diameters. Their main function is to stretch the vagina. Dilators are used by people with vaginismus to make them feel more at ease with vaginal penetration and less sensitive to it.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy: assists you in understanding how your ideas influence your feelings and behaviours It works well for anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Counselling for you and your partner: Assist individuals and couples in regaining joy in their sexual interactions.

Many women with vaginismus no longer suffer from the condition after speaking  and taking the proper guidance from their doctor . You are not obligated to continue to suffer. Many issues, including vaginismus, can result in painful intercourse. Most of these issues are curable. Many people report revolutionary change in their sex life and mental health following vaginismus therapy. However, proper therapy takes time, so you must be patient. Be open and talk about it, there’s nothing to be ashamed of!