A: The exact cause of Vaginismus remains unknown and unclear. It is usually not the result of sexual abuse but occasionally we see vaginismus in patients who have suffered from abuse

A: It’s unlikely that Vaginismus would go away on its own. Vaginismus is an involuntary tightness of muscles in the vagina. Since it is involuntary, Vaginismus can only be treated with dilation and Pelvic floor physical therapy. With the right treatment, it can nearly always be helped

A: Difficult, painful or impossible vaginal penetration during sex or insertion of anything into the vagina, including sex toys and tampons Pressure in the vagina Burning at the vaginal opening

A: There are two main types of vaginismus. Primary This is when a woman has had pain every time something entered their vagina, including a penis (called penetrative sex), or when they’re never been able to insert anything into their vagina. It’s also called lifelong vaginismus. Secondary This is when a woman has had sex without pain before, but then it becomes difficult or impossible. It’s also called acquired vaginismus

A: The muscle response can be attributed to a limbic system reaction and is not under the immediate direction or control of the woman. Therefore, regardless of the causes of vaginismus, there is always a distinct, sexually crippling, physical side to the condition. It is a condition in which different physical and/or emotional factors may play contributory roles, and so both should be examined as part of the treatment process

A: When a woman experiences penetration difficulties or tightness, it is rarely due to a small or abnormal vagina, and nearly always due to vaginismus.

A: Hymen problems rarely cause penetration difficulty. In very rare cases, women with unusually thick hymens may have penetration difficulties because of it. However, in practice, most women who believe their hymen is causing a penetration problem actually have vaginismus. Vaginismus is a much more common cause of penetration difficulties, and the symptoms can be almost identical to that of a hymen problem. We should encourage women suspecting hymen problems to complete a gynaecological exam with a knowledgeable specialist where issues like this can be discussed, and seek a second opinion when necessary.

A: Healthcare experts still don't know exactly what causes vaginismus, but some risk factors include prior surgeries, infections, or childbirth-related injuries, such as vaginal tears. Other risk factors are psychological; anxiety disorders and negative feelings about sex, perhaps stemming from past sexual trauma, are both linked to vaginismus. Individuals who have experienced relationship problems or had a painful first intercourse are at an increased risk for developing vaginismus

A: Vaginal atrophy: Lack of oestrogen after menopause makes the lining of the vagina thinner and drier (vaginal atrophy). Vulvar vestibulitis (provoked vestibulodynia): This condition causes painful sex (dyspareunia). People may have pain from initial penetration throughout the entire experience.