Vaginismus
Alternate Names : Vaginal Muscle Spasms
Vaginismus is painful, reflex muscle spasm of the vagina and leg
muscles, which occurs when sexual intercourse is tried or anticipated.
What is going on in the body?
When a woman has vaginismus, muscle spasms cause the vagina and leg muscles to
tighten reflexively. Putting a finger or penis in the vagina is quite painful.
Often it cannot be done.
The problem is often linked to past sexual trauma. Other
factors, such as fear of pregnancy or venereal disease, may also be present.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Some contributing factors are:
past sexual trauma, as a child, teen, or adult
sexual inhibition for religious, cultural or emotional reasons
pain with intercourse in the past
desiring women rather than men, even if the desire is not acted upon
painful pelvic exams
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