Vaginismus and Emotional trauma: Are they related?

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

It's believed that women all around the world underreport experiencing discomfort during penetrative sexual activity. However, it may be a stressful problem that can have an adverse effect on a woman's capacity to develop emotional and physical closeness in her sexual relationships as well as her self-esteem and psychological health. Vaginismus which is body’s response to fear of vaginal penetration causes pain and discomfort during sex. The question arises that are vaginismus and emotional trauma related to each other? Can anxiety and abuse be a reason for vaginismus?

Historically, the term "vaginismus" has been used to describe recurring and chronic muscular spasms of the vagina's outer third. For women experiencing vaginismus, excessive pelvic floor muscle tightness may make vaginal penetration uncomfortable or difficult, notably when inserting tampons or fingers or performing gynaecological exams.

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There is no single common cause, although therapy has been shown to be effective up until the point of complete recovery. The biggest challenge is frequently getting through the layers of shame, guilt, or humiliation. People usually experience an emotional toll that is at least as severe as their physical symptoms. PTSD, anxiety, or despair are additional symptoms of vaginismus, which is frequently a physical reification of prior emotional trauma.

One of the main risk factors of sexual health issues is sexual abuse, whether it occurs in childhood or maturity. According to studies, those who have experienced sexual assault are more prone to experience orgasmic disorders, reduced desire, decreased frequency of sexual engagement, and other sexual difficulties. It may not come as a surprise, but the connection between sexual abuse and vaginismus and dyspareunia is still significant.

It is advised that individuals with vaginismus create a care and support plan that runs concurrently with their medical care. Having support may be a crucial part of healing while dealing with the trauma that creates vaginismus as well as the ongoing physical discomfort.

The findings of this study suggest that emotional abuse may also have an effect on one's sexual function, namely as a risk factor for vaginismus. This discovery highlights the significance of addressing both the physical and mental health of women with vaginismus, even if additional research is needed to clarify the connection between emotional maltreatment and vaginismus.

In the end, individuals who have experienced emotional or sexual abuse and are dealing with a sexual pain problem may decide to seek psychological help, such as therapy, in addition to other suggested therapies for their illness.