Understanding Vaginismus: What You Need to Know

Vaginismus is a condition that affects many women, but it’s often not talked about enough. It involves the involuntary tightening of the muscles around the vagina, making penetration painful or impossible. This muscle spasm is not something a person can control consciously, which can lead to frustration and anxiety. The good news is that vaginismus is treatable, and many women can go on to have comfortable and enjoyable sexual experiences. This can also make activities like tampon use, or medical exams painful.

Key Symptoms:

• Pain during intercourse or inability to engage in penetration

• Difficulty or inability to insert tampons or medical exams

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Involuntary muscle tightening

• Vaginal tightness or pressure

• Anxiety or fear about penetration

  
  

What the Latest Research Says....

1. Pelvic Floor Therapy is Highly Effective: A 2023 study by Fischer et al. showed that 90% of women experienced significant symptom relief after 12 weeks of pelvic floor physical therapy.

2. Combined Therapy Works Best: A 2022 review found that pairing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with pelvic floor exercises led to faster, longer-lasting results.

3. Dilator Therapy Improves Outcomes: A 2021 clinical trial from the Journal of Sexual Medicine confirmed that dilator use under the guidance of a pelvic floor therapist reduced pain and anxiety associated with penetration.

   
   

The APTA (American Physical Therapy Association) recommends pelvic floor therapy as a primary treatment for vaginismus, backed by recent evidence supporting its success.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Treats Vaginismus

Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on relaxing the pelvic muscles and reducing pain. Here’s how it helps:

1. Muscle Control: Therapists teach exercises to relax and strengthen pelvic muscles, easing discomfort.

2. Vaginal Dilators: Gradual use of dilators can help desensitize muscles to penetration, reducing pain over time.

3. Biofeedback: New technology helps visualize muscle control, allowing for more effective treatment.

4. Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques help relax and stretch the pelvic floor muscles.

5. Education: Understanding how the body works helps reduce fear and anxiety, key factors in vaginismus.

   
   

Take Charge of Your Health

Every case of vaginismus is unique, but combining pelvic floor physical therapy with emotional support, such as counseling or CBT, offers the best chance for recovery. According to a 2022 APTA report, most women experience reduced pain and improved sexual health after completing therapy. The latest research confirms that pelvic floor therapy is a proven, non-invasive solution, offering hope and relief for those experiencing symptoms. Reach out to a pelvic floor therapist today to start your healing journey.

References:

• Fischer, M., et al. (2023). "Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Vaginismus Treatment: A 12-Week Study." Journal of Women’s Health.

• World Health Organization. "Pelvic Pain and Vaginismus." Accessed via PubMed.

• APTA. "Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Vaginismus." 2022.

Remember, the suggestions on this and other blog posts on this website is not to be used as substitution of medical advice given by your provider. The information on this website is also not to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease but for educational purposes only. It is best to consult with your medical professional.