This term is used to denote a spasm of the muscles surrounding the vagina. Vaginismus or vaginal spasm may be precipitated by a number of things. These may include sexual intercourse, the insertion of a speculum or finger, or even the prospect these things taking place. Women who suffer from vaginismus tend to have normal sexual arousal and an adequate amount of lubrication but nevertheless still experience vaginal spasm. The spasm may range from slight discomfort to an intense pain which is so severe that penetration becomes impossible.
There are a number of reasons why a woman might develop vaginismus, such as previous sexual traumas, traumatic pelvic examination and fear of pregnancy.
Hypnotherapy is valuable in the treatment of this condition in that it helps the patient to become more relaxed in both sexual situations as well as gynaecological examinations.
The length of treatment required may vary according to the nature and severity of the underlying cause of the problem. In more complex cases it may be necessary to combine the hypnotherapy with individual psychotherapy. The great advantage of this treatment approach is that it does not involve the use of any medication, and has a high success rate.