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Vaginismus


Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

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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