Home > Health Topics > Topics beginning with V > Vaginal Muscle Spasms - Vaginismus > Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Medical References
Diseases & Conditions
Women's Health
Mental Health
Men's Health
Medical Web Links
MOL Site Map
Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
Vaginal Muscle Spasms - Vaginismus
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
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: