Remedies for vaginismus

Vaginismus involves involuntary tightening of the muscles around the vaginal opening when penetration is expected or attempted. It can make sex, tampon use, or an examination painful or difficult. The tightening is a real physical response and may be linked with previous pain, fear, pelvic conditions, or distress; it is not something you should force through. [Pain During Sex](/symptoms/pain-during-sex/) can have other causes too.

A clinician can check for infection, skin conditions, hormonal changes, or other sources of pain. Treatment may include [Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/pelvic-floor-physiotherapy/) to learn relaxation and control, counselling or sex therapy, and gradual exposure at a pace you choose. [Vaginal Dilator Therapy](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/vaginal-dilator-therapy/) may use smooth graduated devices with lubricant and stopping rules. Start only with guidance, and never continue through sharp pain or fear.

Arrange an appointment if penetration pain is new, persistent, worsening, or preventing examinations or intimacy. Seek prompt care for bleeding, sores, unusual discharge, fever, pelvic pain, or pain after a procedure. Urgent help is appropriate for severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fainting.

Ask what might be contributing to the muscle response, whether an examination can be adapted, and which therapist has experience with pelvic pain. Discuss goals such as comfortable examinations, tampon use, intimacy, or conception without treating any one goal as compulsory.