Vaginismus Symptoms: Signs That Speak of its Presence
Many women experience painful sex due to Vaginismus, which also makes the act unsatisfying for them.
It can be either a temporary or lifelong condition and can affect a woman at any age.
Various factors can cause it, which include fear of sex, troubled childhood, and sexual abuse.
It can also be due to reasons like Menopause, surgery, urinary infection, or childbirth.
Fortunately, Vaginismus can be treated through exercises, counseling, or vagina dilators.
These methods help during penetration by stretching the vaginal muscles adequately.
This article explores the various Vaginismus symptoms to help people understand what does Vaginismus feel like and women get the answer to, “How do I know if I have Vaginismus?”
Symptoms of Vaginismus
Vaginismus is not a severe issue but makes vaginal penetration painful for women.
In this condition, the vaginal muscles of a woman start to contract steadily and automatically during vaginal penetration of any sort.
The signs of Vaginismus in different women can be anywhere from mild discomfort to severe pain.
It can be difficult for many females to identify and diagnose the condition without knowing the Vaginismus symptoms.
The condition affects every case differently, and all the known Vaginismus signs and symptoms have been mentioned below.
Physical symptoms
The Vaginismus signs that women may experience physically are:
Experiencing discomfort or pain during penetration
Symptoms of Vaginismus always include discomfort or pain during intercourse in the majority of the cases.
During vaginal penetration, the pelvic floor muscle contractions start involuntarily.
These spasms can make sex undesirable by making the affected woman feel a burn, sting, or tightness.
Being unable to insert a tampon
Inserting a tampon can be very painful or difficult for someone with Vaginismus.
This is because the vagina becomes too tight and obstructs the path of insertion of the tampon.
Urination becoming painful
Vaginismus can make peeing or even bowel movements a matter of discomfort or pain.
This is due to the pelvic muscles contracting involuntarily and becoming tensed during the mentioned bodily functions.
Psychological symptoms
Vaginismus can be due to psychological stimulus, and women may display psychological signs of Vaginismus, such as:
Fear or anxiety
If one becomes afraid or anxious at the thought of vaginal penetration, it is a big sign of Vaginismus.
Factors such as an incidence of past trauma can cause intimacy issues. Anxiety linked to sex and preventing it can also lead to depression.
Feeling shameful or guilty
Women with Vaginismus may feel ashamed or guilty.
They may feel incompetent for the issues faced due to their condition during sex and may blame themselves.
This affects their psychological wellness and harms their self-image.
Having low self-esteem
Vaginismus can affect women’s confidence in their body and their ability to have fulfilling sexual relationships, which can impact their overall self-worth.
The condition can present various challenges that can contribute to low self-esteem.
Lifestyle and personal symptoms
The lifestyle and personal symptoms of Vaginismus can include:
Limiting sexual activity
Vaginismus can cause pain and discomfort during sexual activity, leading individuals to avoid or limit such encounters to prevent anxiety or pain.
This can have a significant impact on their overall sexual satisfaction and quality of life.
Dissatisfaction in intimate relationships
Vaginismus can create difficulties in intimate relationships, as the physical and emotional obstacles linked with the condition can interfere with sexual intimacy.
This may lead to frustration or emotional distance between partners who may struggle to comprehend this health issue.
When to see a doctor
If the presence of Vaginismus symptoms is making life difficult, it may be time to visit a doctor.
A doctor will diagnose Vaginismus by evaluating symptoms, asking about their medical history, and performing a physical exam.
It is important to talk to a doctor If you experience any of these Vaginismus symptoms.
They can help you find ways to manage your anxiety and make the exam more comfortable for you.
Therefore, the following are some indications that it might be necessary to seek medical assistance:
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse or attempts at vaginal penetration
- Pain or discomfort with tampon use or during pelvic exams
- Experiencing difficulty during gynecological exams
- Feeling anxious or depressed
- Difficulty conceiving
- Loss of sexual desire or performance anxiety
- Painful urination or bowel movements
Conclusion
Vaginismus is a common disorder that affects many women and causes pain and discomfort during sexual activity.
Identifying Vaginismus symptoms is essential in finding the right treatment and support.
The symptoms may differ in intensity and manifestation from one individual to another.
The physical signs of Vaginismus are discomfort or pain during penetration, inability to insert a tampon, and painful urination.
The psychological symptoms of Vaginismus include sex-related fear or anxiety, shame or guilt, and low self-esteem.
Vaginismus can also be identified through some lifestyle and personal symptoms, such as limited sexual activity and dissatisfaction with intimate relationships.
Women can have a satisfying and healthy sexual life by being aware of the signs of Vaginismus and implementing preventative measures as suggested by their doctors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of Vaginismus?
Vaginismus primarily causes vaginal pain during penetration, often accompanied by fear, reduced sexual desire, and difficulties with pelvic exams due to muscle spasms. Other symptoms include painful urination, difficulties with tampons, as well as performance anxiety.
Do only older women experience Vaginismus?
No, it is a misconception that only older women experience Vaginismus. It can affect all women. Age or sexual experience is not a determining factor of whether or not you have this condition. Various treatments are available, including therapy, pelvic floor muscle exercises, and gradual use of dilators.
What are the common causes of Vaginismus?
The reason for the occurrence of Vaginismus is not entirely understood. However, it is believed that both physical and psychological factors contribute to the condition. Vaginismus can be caused by various factors such as traumatic experiences, anxiety, fear, and medical conditions like infections or Endometriosis.
Can Vaginismus be prevented?
Although there isn’t a foolproof method to stop Vaginismus, women can lower their chances of getting it. These include talking to their partner, engaging in relaxation exercises, and getting medical attention for any ailments that might be causing them pain during sex.
