Vaginismus
Medically reviewed by the SEDU Clinical Review Board. Detailed pathophysiology, symptoms, evidence-based care guidelines, and pelvic health recovery protocols.
Clinical Overview
Involuntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the vaginal canal, preventing or making vaginal penetration painful, difficult, or impossible.
Associated Symptoms
- Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse)
- Chronic Pelvic Pain
Treatment Pathways
- Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (PFPT)
- Progressive Vaginal Dilator Therapy
Causes & Mechanisms
Hypertonicity of the pubococcygeus muscle triggered by a conditioned protective spasm reflex. Often secondary to physical pain or psychosexual anxiety.
Clinical Risk Factors
Diagnosis & Clinical Screening
Clinical assessment via physical exam to identify trigger points and muscle hypertonicity.
Prevention & Care Guidelines
Treated with pelvic floor physical therapy, progressive vaginal dilators, biofeedback, and psychosexual therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Is vaginismus physical or mental?
It is a psychosomatic loop: physical spasm triggers pain, which causes anticipation, strengthening the spasm.
Therapeutic Exercises
Happy Baby Pose
An excellent hip-opener and pelvic floor lengthening posture that releases deep-seated tension.
Diaphragmatic Breathing
Deep abdominal breathing technique that activates the parasympathetic nervous system to relax the pelvic floor and lower body.
Pelvic Tilts
Gentle, therapeutic movement to restore mobility to the lower back and release tension in the pelvic girdle.
Related Conditions in Encyclopedia
Clinical References & Journal Citations
- 1Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder.
- 2International Pelvic Pain Society (IPPS) Guidelines, 2021.