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    1. Home
    2. Health and wellbeing
    3. Illnesses and conditions
    4. A to Z

    Vaginismus

    Vaginismus is when the vagina suddenly tightens up just as you try to put something into it. It can be painful and distressing, but it can be treated.

    About vaginismus

    Vaginismus is the body's automatic reaction to the fear of some or all types of vaginal penetration.

    Whenever penetration is attempted, your vaginal muscles tighten up on their own. You have no control over it.

    Occasionally, you can get vaginismus even if you've previously enjoyed painless penetrative sex.

    Vaginismus doesn't necessarily affect your ability to get aroused and enjoy other types of sexual contact.

     Other things that can cause women pain during sex include:

    • vulvodynia
    • thrush
    • sexually transmitted infections
    • menopause
    • a bad reaction to condoms, soap or shampoo
    • pelvic inflammatory disease
    • endometriosis

    When to get medical advice

    See a GP or go to a sexual health clinic if:

    • you find it hard putting a tampon in your vagina
    • you struggle with vaginal penetration during sex
    • you feel burning or stinging pain during sex

    These are common signs of vaginismus.

    You can ask to be seen by a female doctor, and you can bring someone you trust along for support.

    Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and may ask to examine your vagina.

    The examination is usually very quick. Your doctor will take a quick look to rule out other conditions, like an infection.

    It's unlikely they'll need to carry out an internal examination of your vagina.

    If your doctor thinks you've got vaginismus, you may be referred to a specialist, such as a sex therapist.

    Treatment for vaginismus

    Treatment usually focuses on:

    • managing your feelings around penetration
    • exercises to gradually get you used to penetration

    To begin with, treatment is done under the guidance of specialised therapists. You will then usually be expected to practise some the exercises at home.

    If you're in a relationship, you can choose to involve your partner.

    Treatment is usually effective and you may see progress in a matter of weeks.

    Sometimes vaginismus is mistaken for a physical problem with your vagina, which can lead to needless surgery. Very few cases of vaginismus need surgery.

    Causes of vaginismus

    Often there's no obvious explanation, but some things thought to cause vaginismus include:

    • fear that your vagina is too small
    • a bad first sexual experience
    • an unpleasant medical examination
    • a belief that sex is shameful or wrong
    • a painful medical condition, like thrush
    • Vaginismus

    More useful links

    • How to use your health services
    • Belfast Health and Social Care Trust - Sexual health services

    The information on this page has been adapted from original content from the NHS website.

    For further information see terms and conditions.

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