Vaginismus Pelvic Physiotherapy
Vaginismus and the role of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Random contractions causing pain and discomfort in sexual intercourse? Come visit our Pelvic Physiotherapy Clinics at Clarkson(Oakville), Mississauga or Etobicoke near you to find out what causes the pain.
What is Vaginismus?
Vaginismus is a condition in which the muscles of the vagina involuntarily contract, making it painful, difficult, or even impossible to engage in sexual intercourse or other forms of vaginal penetration. Vaginismus can be a temporary or chronic condition and can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life and sex life.
The exact cause of vaginismus is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to anxiety or fear related to sexual activity. Women with vaginismus may have a history of sexual trauma, negative attitudes towards sex, or difficulty with intimacy. Physical conditions such as infections, hormonal imbalances, or menopause can also contribute to vaginismus.
Symptoms of vaginismus may include:
- Inability to insert tampons or undergo gynecological exams
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse or attempted penetration
- Vaginal muscle spasms or tightening
- Fear or anxiety related to sexual activity
- Avoidance of sexual activity
Treatment for vaginismus typically involves a combination of physical therapy and psychological counselling. Pelvic floor Physiotherapy performs Comprehensive examination and after thorough examination they prepare the Individualized therapy treatment plan which includes pelvic floor exercises, relaxation techniques, and the use of vaginal dilators to help stretch and relax the muscles of the vagina and other manual therapy approaches. Psychological counseling may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, sex therapy, or other forms of talk therapy to address anxiety, fear, or negative attitudes towards sex.
Read more about Occupational therapist / Psychologist
It's important to speak with a Pelvic Floor physiotherapist if you experience symptoms of vaginismus or any other issues related to sexual activity. With appropriate treatment, many women with vaginismus are able to overcome their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Read more about Pelvic Health for Women.
What are the symptoms of Vaginismus?
The primary symptom of vaginismus is the involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles, which can make sexual intercourse or other forms of vaginal penetration painful or difficult. Other symptoms that may accompany vaginismus include:
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse or attempted penetration
- Burning or stinging sensations in the genital area
- Difficulty inserting tampons or undergoing gynecological exams
- Fear or anxiety related to sexual activity
- Avoidance of sexual activity
- Decreased sexual desire or arousal
The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person, and some women may only experience mild discomfort or pain during sexual activity, while others may find it impossible to engage in any form of vaginal penetration. It's important to speak with a Pelvic Floor physiotherapist if you experience any symptoms related to sexual activity, as there are many treatment options available for vaginismus.
How can Physiotherapy help in Vaginismus?
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists are primary health care providers and provide treatment options for vaginismus, particularly when the condition is related to muscle tension or weakness in the pelvic floor. Here are some techniques that physiotherapists may use to help address vaginismus:
- Pelvic floor muscle assessment: A physiotherapist at Alleviate performs a thorough assessment of the pelvic floor muscles to identify areas of tension, weakness, or dysfunction.
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises: Based on the assessment results, the pelvic Floor physiotherapist develops an individualized treatment program to help strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles.
- Vaginal dilators: The use of vaginal dilators can be helpful in stretching and relaxing the muscles of the vagina. Our pelvic floor physiotherapist will guide you on the proper use of vaginal dilators.
- Biofeedback: Biofeedback is a technique that uses sensors to monitor muscle activity and provide feedback to the patient. This Modality is helpful in teaching patients how to properly contract or relax their pelvic floor muscles.
- Massage and manual therapy: Our Pelvic floor physiotherapist can use massage and manual therapy techniques to help release tension and reduce pain in the pelvic floor muscles.
- Relaxation techniques: Stress and anxiety can contribute to pelvic floor muscle tension and vaginismus. A physiotherapist can teach relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to help reduce stress and tension.
- Education: Our Pelvic floor physiotherapist can provide education on proper posture, body mechanics, and breathing techniques to help reduce pelvic floor muscle tension and alleviate pain.
Working with a Pelvic floor physiotherapist, clients can learn how to properly contract and relax their pelvic floor muscles, reduce tension, and alleviate pain during sexual activity.
We at Alleviate Physiotherapy, work with our clients to develop a customized treatment plan that best meets their needs. Our goal is to help clients relieve pain, and improve their condition. Our personalized treatment plans take into account our client’s specific needs and goals for them to lead a pain free life, with better mobility.
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