First of all, I want to reassure you that vaginusmus is a common condition, and is quite treatable. You are not alone, and there’s no need to feel embarrassed. The important thing to understand is that it’s not something you’re doing on purpose but is happening and is out of your control.Vaginismus is something that can be managed with cooperation of you and your gynaecologist. Vaginismus is not the same as a lack of desire for intimacy; it is a physical response to anxiety, fear, or discomfort related to penetration. These muscles tighten when you try to have intercourse or experience vaginal penetration. Some people have physical causes, such as a history of infections or injury, while others may develop it in response to emotional or psychological factors, like stress, anxiety, or negative past sexual experiences. Sometimes, it’s a combination of both. Treatment typically involves a combination of physical therapy, counselling, and sometimes medical treatments, like using vaginal dilators or even Botox injections to help relax the pelvic muscles. Vaginal dilators are commercially available and are effective in upto 90% of cases. Emotionally it is a very challenging condition and people experience fear, guilt, or anxiety surrounding sex, and these feelings can make the condition worse. It results in poor functioning of marriages and can lead to separation also. Talking through these feelings with a therapist can be incredibly helpful. Sex therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help you reframe any negative thoughts or beliefs you have about sex. It’s very important to have support from your partner, and if you'd like, we can help facilitate open communication with them so they can understand what you're going through. Together, we can work toward solutions that will allow you to regain your comfort and confidence. If you have any further doubts, please consult Dr Kusum Lata.
