How to Know if you have Vaginismus

 Hands caressing an orange

When searching for answers to things you don’t understand about your body, it’s essential to never feel ashamed or assume that you are at fault. Any form of sexual dysfunction, whether physical, psychological or a combination of the two, can be both exhausting, and scary. 

Taking care of your mental health during this distressing time and sharing to your partner your pains, fears, and frustrations will help them understand where you’re coming from and alleviate some concern from your psyche. These are wise steps to follow if you have Vaginismus.

What are the Symptoms of Vaginismus?

Vaginismus is the involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles, also known as the pelvic floor muscles. Spasms may be recurrent or persistent and tend to occur during penetration ーmost often, with a partner ーbut can also occur with the insertion of a tampon. However, vaginismus doesn’t always have a direct physical link. Constriction of the vagina can also occur due to past sexual abuse or trauma, past experience with painful intercourse, menopause, trauma from childbirth, childhood trauma, and varied emotional factors. 

It is not possible to use willpower to stop the spasms once they start, and due to their pain and inconvenience, psychological symptoms could persist, such as developing a fear of penetration or towards penetrative sex at all.  Living with Vaginismus feels like a source of shame for many individuals, to say the least. And that is unfair to those suffering.

What does Vaginismus Look Like?

Vaginismus, always an irritating mystery, is also difficult to “see” from the outside. There are two types: “Primary Vaginismus, where penetration has never been achieved, and Secondary Vaginismus, where penetration was achieved before but is no longer possible.”

This condition is more of something felt than seen. The right combination of treatment could range from an appointment with a pelvic floor therapist, and/or a sex therapist meditation for relaxation, as well as some additional physical aids like a  dilator set and a quality water-based lubricant. 

What does Vaginismus Feel Like?

One character on the popular Netflix show  ‘Sex Education’ describes her experience with: “It’s like my vagina has lockjaw.” While the severity of vaginismus varies, vagina-owners predominantly report stinging or burning pain if anything is inserted into the vagina during a spasm. Others say it’s like the penis runs into a block. This doesn’t mean that sex is off the table or that you’ll never enjoy an orgasm.

Vaginismus may encourage couples to  explore new means of pleasure when penetration is off the table. We recommend our sister company  Tickle Kitty for unique adult toys that don’t involve penetration, such as vibrators or  clitoral air stimulators.  Foreplay and clitoral stimulation can further be enhanced by our  GoLove CBD Intimate Serum, resulting in increased sexual satisfaction, intimacy, and climax for both partners. 

CBD for Vaginismus Relief

We recommend liberally massaging  GoLove CBD Intimate Serum around the labia and vulva before partnered sex, masturbation, pelvic exams, dilator therapy, etc. Wait 15 minutes for the full effects of the CBD provide the desired effects.

Do I have Vaginismus?

If vaginismus is part of your life, you might choose to embrace it and work with it. Once the psychological barriers, if any, are overcome, you will find that it does not interfere with your ability to experience arousal and pleasure through sensual touch ー be it massage or oral stimulation.

Moreover, it is important to remember that the condition is non-contagious, not your fault, and outside of your control. Speak with your partner about your feelings surrounding vaginismus, and accept yourself and your body, perfect as it is. Consult your doctor to learn more about vaginismus if the information above resonates. It is not the end of your sex life but merely a pivot into other forms of pleasure. 

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