vaginismus

vaginismus /vag·i·nis·mus/ (vaj″ĭ-niz´mus) painful spasm of the vagina due to involuntary muscular contraction, usually severe enough to prevent intercourse; the cause may be organic or psychogenic.

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vag·i·nis·mus (vj-nzms)

n.

A usually prolonged and painful contraction or spasm of the vagina.

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Vaginismus

Muscles around the outer third of the vagina have involuntary spasms in response to attempts at vaginal penetration, not allowing for penetration.

Mentioned in: Female Sexual Arousal Disorder, Sexual Dysfunction

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vaginismus

[vaj′iniz′məs]

Etymology: L, vagina + spasmus, spasm

a psychophysiologic genital reaction of women, characterized by intense contraction of the perineal and paravaginal musculature, tightly closing the vaginal introitus. It occurs in response to fear of painful intercourse before coitus or of pelvic examination. Vaginismus is considered abnormal if it occurs in the absence of genital lesions and if it conflicts with a woman's desire to participate in sexual intercourse or to permit examination, but it may be a normal or physiologic response if painful genital conditions exist or if forcible or premature intromission is anticipated. Abnormal vaginismus is uncommon. Sexual adjustment often can be achieved through educative and supportive measures that lead to improved sexual self-awareness and response. In some cases the condition is a manifestation of serious mental illness and requires formal psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Gender identity conflict, a history of trauma from rape or incest, or an intense suppression of sexuality in childhood and adolescence are factors that often are associated with vaginismus. See also dyspareunia.

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vaginismus

painful spasms of the muscles of the vagina.

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vaginismus

Unconsummated marriage Psychiatry A sexual dysfunction characterized by '…recurrent or persistent involuntary contraction of the perineal muscles surrounding the outer third of the vagina when penetration with penis, finger, tampon, or speculum is attempted…(This causes)…marked distress or interpersonal difficulty…(and) is not better accounted for by another…disorder.' See Dyspareunia. Cf Vaginosis.