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Vaginismus


The Basics


Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is vaginismus? " � Vaginismus is a condition that happens when the muscles around the opening to the vagina tighten up. The muscles tighten when something is about to be put in the vagina, such as a penis, tampon, or medical device. Vaginismus causes pain during sex. A woman might also have pain if a doctor or nurse does a pelvic exam. � �
Vaginismus can happen if a woman has anxiety about sex or pelvic exams or has had a bad experience with either of these in the past. It can also happen if a woman has an infection or other medical condition in the vagina. � �
What are the symptoms of vaginismus? " � The main symptom of vaginismus is pain when something is put in the vagina, such as a penis, finger, tampon, or medical device. Sometimes, the pain is so bad that nothing can be put in the vagina. � �
Should I see a doctor or nurse? " � If having sex is painful, see your doctor or nurse. He or she can look for the cause. If you feel pain during a pelvic exam or the pain is so bad that you cant start or continue an exam, let the doctor or nurse know when you feel it and where the pain is. � �
Is there a test for vaginismus? " � No. There is no specific test. Your doctor or nurse should be able to tell if you have it by learning about your symptoms and doing an exam. He or she might be able to feel the muscles around the opening to your vagina tighten during an exam. � �
How is vaginismus treated? " � Treatments include: � �
  • Treatment for any medical condition that is causing pain, such as an infection or skin irritation
  • Exercises to help relax the tight muscles
  • Physical therapy to loosen the muscles around your vagina
  • Devices called "dilators " � you place in your vagina " � These can help you get used to having something in the vagina. You can use numbing medicine when using the dilators so that they cause less pain.

All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 83177 Version 2.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.206 � �
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �

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This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.The use of UpToDate content is governed by the UpToDate Terms of Use. � �2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �

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