How common is pain during sex in vaginismus?

Vaginismus involves involuntary tightening of muscles around the vaginal opening when penetration is expected or attempted. This can cause burning, stinging, pressure, or a feeling that penetration is blocked. The response may happen with intercourse, a tampon, or an examination, and it is not a choice or a sign that you have failed. Fear of pain can reinforce the tightening, although emotional distress is not the only possible factor.

A gynaecology clinician or pelvic floor physiotherapist can assess the pattern and check for skin, infection, hormonal, or other pain conditions. Treatment may include education, gradual desensitisation, pelvic floor relaxation, counselling, and practical changes that keep intimacy comfortable. Use clear consent, pause at any pain, and never force penetration. You can still have satisfying intimacy without penetration while deciding what feels safe for you.

Book an assessment if pain or muscle tightening prevents sex, tampon use, or examinations, or if the problem is affecting your relationships or wellbeing. Seek prompt care for new severe pelvic pain, fever, unusual discharge, sores, bleeding, or pain that is rapidly worsening, because these features may point to another condition needing treatment.

Could vaginismus be contributing to my pain, and what other causes should we check? Can you explain pelvic floor treatment or gradual exercises? How can an examination be adapted to my comfort? What should I do if symptoms flare?