Vaginismus is an involuntary contraction or spasm of the vaginal muscles (pelvic floor muscles). Depending on the severity of closure, it can cause pain or difficulty with attempted penetration during intercourse, tampon insertion or during gynecological exams.

This condition sometimes begins when women are in their teens or early twenties, when they first attempt to use a tampon or have sexual intercourse. However, it can develop later in life after a period of normal sexual function.

The main causes of Vaginismus can be attributed to both physical conditions and non-physical triggers.

Physical Causes – Post child birth, menopause and hormonal changes, frequent UITs, yeast infections, history of abuse, post pelvic surgery.

Non-Physical Causes – Fear or anticipation of pain with insertion, anxiety, partner issues, childhood experiences, emotional/witness of abuse.

Unexplained – No identifiable cause.

The physical and and emotional causes of Vaginismus can be categorized into two main types:

Primary Vaginismus – Full sexual penetration is impossible often described by women as  “hitting a wall”, or “there is no opening”.  There is also a severe difficulty or inability inserting tampons or undergoing a standard gynecological exam.

Secondary Vaginismus – An unexplained, ongoing sexual pain and discomfort even though there is a previous history of normal intercourse. Women often feel burning, stinging, friction and/or pain with intercourse. Usually, this type of Vaginismus is triggered by a singular event or an emotional anxiety.

Since Vaginismus results from spasm of the pelvic floor muscles, pelvic floor physical therapy is considered an optimal treatment option. To begin, education about the role of the pelvic floor muscles and how to control them is crucial in treating Vaginismus.

Tactile and/or EMG Biofeedback – Re-educate muscle relaxation. We also utilize vaginal dilators and therapeutic exercise to decrease muscle spasms. Progressive use of vaginal dilators in conjunction with targeted diaphragmatic breathing is also recommended.

Manual Techniques – Trigger point inhibition, strain – counter strain, myofascial mobilization to release restrictions in the pelvic and hips region.

General Alignment – Addressing issues in the pelvic girdle region.

We accept PPO/POS plans for most insurance companies. Although most insurance companies cover physical therapy, what they cover varies greatly. Please call us at 201-366-1116 or complete below form so we can verify your specific plan benefits.