Vaginismus might be a tongue-twister of a word and a bit hard to pronounce but when it comes to your vaginal health, it’s worth understanding what it is. The first thing that probably comes to mind when thinking of icky conditions “down there” is yeast infections. But vaginismus proves to be a more serious and painful condition for women diagnosed with it.
What Is Vaginismus?
According to the Merck Manual on Women’s Health Issues and Sexual Dysfunction In Women Vaginismus is defined as the following:
“Vaginismus is involuntary contraction of muscles around the opening of the vagina in women with no abnormalities in the genital organs. The tight muscle contraction makes sexual intercourse or any sexual activity that involves penetration painful or impossible.”
Because the vaginal muscles contract, women who have vaginismus may find it challenging to enjoy sex. Why? Well, because pain during intercourse is one major symptom.
Symptoms: Pain, Pain, & Even More Pain!
- Pain during intercourse
- Pain during any sort of vaginal penetration
- Pain during gyno exams
- Pain during tampon insertion
What Causes Vaginismus?
Some of the causes of vaginismus are emotionally related to anxiety, fear, or relationship issues. Life-related trauma either current or past childhood trauma can also trigger vaginismus.
Other triggers are more physical such as having pelvic surgery, contracting a urinary tract infection (UTI), and even having a yeast infection. In addition to infections, serious illnesses like cancer or lichen sclerosis can cause painful vaginal muscle contraction. Some life changing transitions like childbirth and menopause can also encourage vaginismus.
Treatment
The first thing your gyno will want to rule out is an infection. If you’re in the clear, then pelvic exercises in addition to kegel, and other muscle contraction and relaxation exercises are recommended. Some doctors might use a cone-shaped object to open the area for 10 to 15 minutes in order for the vagina to get used to pressure. The goal is to help train the brain to acclimate to pressure instead of wanting to seize.
If you are experiencing any sort of abnormal pain during intercourse or even when simply trying to insert a tampon. See your gyno and ask to be checked to see if you have vaginismus. Women with vaginismus can go on to enjoy a healthy sex life and are able to use tampons after treatment.
Natural Tampon Use After Vaginismus
Your outer vaginal skin is sensitive, but so is your vaginal canal and its inner wall. Once your vaginal opening adjusts to dilation exercises, the body acclimates to the pressure. Starting out with the smallest size is recommended for women looking to try tampons again after vaginismus treatment. Veeda 100% Natural Cotton Tampons in lite absorbency has the smallest circumference with compact applicator for light days. If you prefer applicator free, then our Veeda regular absorbency tampons are an option to start. You’ll know that your body has passed the test, and vaginismus treatment a success, when there’s no pain associated with using tampons or during sexual intercourse.
Veeda natural tampons come with worry-free menstrual protection. We guarantee hypoallergenic, natural ingredients made with non-GMO 100 percent natural cotton. Veeda tampons are not made using a chlorine bleaching process that creates toxic chemicals like dioxins. Our tampons, pads, and fem-wipes are made with skin-loving ingredients so you can experience a healthier period.
Because what you put inside you and against your most sensitive vaginal skin area, ought to be made with natural ingredients you trust, especially when you’re recovering from vaginismus.